Dog-walking might be résumé-worthy

Q: I became a dog walker to make money while looking for permanent work. Should I put it on my résumé?

A: If you've picked up any skills dog walking that pertain to a job you want, mention it. But it's OK to leave it out, too. However, I absolutely would mention it in the job interview because it shows you kept busy while job hunting, and at the same time did a very important service for several humans and their pets.

Q: After 10 years of hard labor, I'm quitting working for my father-in-law. Is it OK to give such a close relative as a reference?

A: Yes. He was your boss, and you earned it. But make sure it's a glowing one.

Q: I'm a new manager and was given a private office. I've furnished it to suit my tastes, but my colleagues, who are not managers, say that I'm "making my own little kingdom." Am I doing something wrong here?

A: You are not. And don't let the jealous remarks of some of your co-workers bother you. After all, you were promoted, and they weren't. You got the private office, and they didn't.

Q: I have a degree in computer science, and my last job was three years ago, before my last child was born. I want to go back to work but need to update my skills. I'm 40, have three kids and going back to school full time is not an option. How can I update myself, and how do I explain the gap in my résumé?

A: You don't need to go to school full time. You just need a refresher course in some aspect of information technology you're qualified to work in. And you can do it online from your home. About the time gap: Taking time out to raise children is legitimate, and you shouldn't apologize for it.

Q: I need closure. I started at an entry-level job for my company in 1991, and in 2003, when I worked myself up to the position of supervisor, I was let go. I always worked hard, got excellent reviews and won several awards. I was devastated when this all came down. I'm eligible to be rehired, according to my exit package, but even though I keep applying, they won't take me back. This really hurts.

A: I'm sorry this happened to you, but you have to forget about it and put it behind you. Someone at the company doesn't want you to work there, so that phase of your life is over. Get on with your life, despite this awful blow. And remember, surviving this shock and doing well in your next job are the best revenge. You will have the last laugh.

Q: I'm in a job search and can't get past the voice-mail and human gatekeepers. I have a strong résumé with excellent skills that I tailor for each position I apply for, but I don't get a response. I know I have excellent references, but I must be doing something wrong but don't know what. Why don't I get a response? Even a "no" would do.

A: We're in a very tight job market and there are very few good jobs available. So human-resource departments, which were not that friendly in the first place, are deluged with applicants. Many just don't care about job seekers they don't plan to hire; others are overwhelmed. Don't take it personally; you are doing everything right.

E-mail questions to Carol Kleiman at ckleiman@tribune.com. Distributed by Knight Ridder/Tribune Business News.