Dear J.T. & Dale: What are your thoughts in regard to personality tests in the work environment. Where I work the tests are being used to some degree to determine promotions. We were amazed at what a short and simple test got correct, but at the same time concerned with what statistical testing got wrong.

- James Read the rest of this entry »

J.T. & Dale: I can’t seem to find a permanent job. My current resume is littered with temp jobs! I left a good job in 2001 to start an Internet business that was a spectacular failure. I have been unable to find a professional job since. I would love to work for a nonprofit doing communications. I really want to move on and stop reminiscing about the good old days (i.e., the late ’90s).

- Garrison Read the rest of this entry »

Dear J.T. & Dale: After 15 years as a trial attorney, I am seeking to change careers, but I’m having difficulty getting my foot in the door. I updated my skills and then applied for jobs as a change-management analyst, corporate-compliance manager, contracts analyst, proposal writer, proposal-development coordinator and program manager, among others. – Regina Read the rest of this entry »

Dear J.T. and Dale: Eight years ago, I took my current job with every intention of staying until retirement. I was recently informed my job would be relocating to the company’s home base. I was told the relocation would be some time in the next six months, but I should be ready to relocate with two weeks’ notice. This is becoming stressful, so I am thinking of asking my employer to give me a definite date. Would this be an unwarranted request? – R.L. Read the rest of this entry »

Dear J.T. & Dale: I am now in sales, but I want to be in accounting. I’m in school working toward a B.A. in accounting, but I can’t even find a job as a bookkeeper. It seems that every company wants experience, but how do I get experience? – Jared Read the rest of this entry »

Dear J.T. & Dale: I recently left a well-paying job after five years with the company. The problem was with the two girls I had to work with. They would feed off each other and make it difficult for me. My supervisor said her hands were tied. I told her if nothing could be done, I would have to look for a position elsewhere. She said, “I hate to see you leave, but I understand and feel free to use my name as a reference.” You can imagine how I felt. Well, I left the company. I do not like the job I took. The man who hired me is always miserable. I was told I need to shrug it off, and if I can’t it would be best to find another job, because this is the way he is and he will never change. What should I say in future interviews as to why I left and why I’m looking? – Evelyn Read the rest of this entry »

Dear J.T. & Dale: My friend got arrested for DUI. My question to you is, should he tell his boss? His lawyer says not to, as he has only been charged with a DUI, not convicted. However, I am of the feeling that being up-front is the best way to go instead of her finding out from someone else. (He was arrested in a county far from our workplace, so it will not be listed in the local paper.) – Elaine Read the rest of this entry »