Dear J.T. & Dale: I’m an executive with a multinational firm in the process of closing its U.S. manufacturing facilities. In anticipation of further restructuring, I wish to seek new employment, and consider LinkedIn to be a powerful vehicle to spread the word. However, I do not wish for colleagues to catch wind of my intentions. How does one use LinkedIn to seek employment while still employed? — Jules Read the rest of this entry »

Dear J.T. & Dale: I was laid off from an engineering firm last November. I didn’t see many opportunities to land a similar job, so I decided to start my own consulting business. So far, I’ve gotten only one assignment. How do I market my company? — Steven Read the rest of this entry »

Dear J.T. & Dale: Our company has been through two rounds of layoffs this year. I’ve been lucky enough to keep my job, and at this point, it seems the company is stable. My question is this: Do you think it’s OK for me to go on my annual two-week vacation? I’ve been afraid to ask for time off because of the layoffs. Should I skip it this year? I’m tired and burnt out, but don’t want to be seen as uncommitted. — Clive Read the rest of this entry »

Dear J.T. & Dale: I have worked in the same field for more than 17 years. I recently decided to change career tracks and go back to school to pursue a master’s degree in a completely different area. I have been searching for new employment ever since I began my classes, without success. My lack of experience in my new field is extremely detrimental to me — every position requires two years or more of experience. What can I do? — Kathy Read the rest of this entry »

Dear J.T. & Dale: I want to get in on jobs before they’re posted for everyone to see. However, most jobs I’m looking for are secret until they are advertised. How can I track down hiring managers and get them to notice me so that the very next instant the job becomes available, they’ll think of me? — Kim Read the rest of this entry »

Dear J.T. & Dale: Is there such a thing as internships for adults? — J.K. Read the rest of this entry »

Dear J.T. & Dale: What are your thoughts on “dumbing down” a resume to get a job? I’ve read that it’s the only way to get called for jobs that I’m overqualified for. I worked hard for my advanced degrees and senior positions, but I’m seeing evidence that it is placing me out of the market. — Russell Read the rest of this entry »

Dear J.T. & Dale: How do I tell a company that eight hours is my max? I have a life outside of work, and I want to live it. Is there a way, in an interview, to tactfully share that I will not work more than eight hours a day? — Katie Read the rest of this entry »

Dear J.T. & Dale: A contract house recently contacted me regarding a job opportunity, having found my resume on the Internet. They sent me for an interview, which went great, and the interviewer told me I would be contacted within three days by the contract house. Five days later I called the contract house and was told the interviewer was not responding to them. I have since called back repeatedly. (They did say on one call that I was one of three finalists.) Finally, I tried to contact the interviewer myself. She told me to go through the contract house and not call her directly. Is this how business is done? — Fergie Read the rest of this entry »

Dear J.T. & Dale: I have a full-time job, but I also work a part-time bartending job that’s not what I want to do, and it’s 40 minutes away. I would like to do something from home. I see ads saying you can make millions from home, but I don’t believe them. Can you point me in the right direction? — Craig Read the rest of this entry »