J.T.: We’re always looking for the chance to bring outside experts into our discussions. Today we get to hear from Al O’Connor, who has spent decades in recruiting and outplacement, much of that time coaching job hunters.

Dale: We sought Al’s advice on getting and giving help with job hunting. Read the rest of this entry »

Dear J.T. & Dale: I’ve been on three separate interviews in the past month where the hiring manager asked me, “What’s your greatest weakness?” I didn’t get any of the jobs, and I think it’s because of the way I answered that question. I was completely honest and told them I have a low tolerance for ignorance and sometimes show my frustration when co-workers make stupid mistakes. Do you think I should answer this differently? — Rae Read the rest of this entry »

Dear J.T. & Dale: I’ve been out of work for more than 12 months. I’ve completely lost my motivation to look for a job. I don’t go out anymore because I hate running into people and having to explain I’m still unemployed. What can someone like me do to finally get a decent job? — Harris Read the rest of this entry »

Dear J.T. & Dale: What am I doing wrong? Everyone tells me to network in order to meet new contacts. I hear constantly from fellow job seekers that they’re having a lot of luck with LinkedIn. So, I reached out to more than a dozen people I thought would make good contacts, and got totally rejected. Not a single one responded to me. Here’s what I’ve been writing:

“Dear X: I’d like to connect with you and send you my resume so I could get feedback on what’s wrong with it. I’ve been searching for a job for 12 months with no luck. Will you help me?”

— Luisa Read the rest of this entry »

Dear J.T. & Dale: I completed a job my junior year of college, and the company was so happy with my performance that they offered me a job after graduation. I’ve followed up last March and they confirmed that I would start late summer. However, this week they told me the department was making cuts, so my position was no longer available. I never bothered to look for another job because I thought I had one. What can I do to kick my job search into high gear? — Brandon Read the rest of this entry »

Dear J.T. & Dale: Two years ago I got divorced and had to go back to work. I took the first job I could find. I never received a raise, and only get three days of vacation each year. My friends say I have a crummy situation and to look for a new job, but I’m not sure where my skills are at this point. Plus, I live in a small town and I’m afraid it will get back to my employer. — Emily Read the rest of this entry »

Dear J.T. & Dale: Everything I’ve read about job searching lately says you should be very specific about the type of job you want so you can focus on the best opportunities. Well, I have a clear idea of what I want to do next, but can’t seem to find any job postings for it. What should I do? — Amanda Read the rest of this entry »

Dear J.T. & Dale: After close to 10 years of work in my field, I quit my full-time job to go back to graduate school for an MBA. I completed the degree and then landed the job I currently have, which is my first managerial job. However, it’s a small company, and I’m the only one in my department. I want to relocate in the next year with my husband, and I’d love to get another managerial job. Do you think employers will take me seriously? — Angela Read the rest of this entry »

Dear J.T. & Dale: Just a comment from a frustrated hiring manager…With all the discussion around interviewing etiquette and the best way to land a job, I still am amazed at the number of people who have no clue what “professional attire” means. Can you remind job-seekers what proper dress is? — Jeff Read the rest of this entry »

Dear J.T. & Dale: I’m 29 years old and have had lots of jobs but no career. I think I may have a misguided outlook on life. What should I be doing? — Matt Read the rest of this entry »