Detroit program a job springboard to new jobs, workers

Since 2006, the Hospitality/Retail Career Center has helped train and place about 160 workers in jobs at local hotels, casinos, restaurants and other businesses across Metro Detroit, said Kenneth Nichols, the center's project coordinator. - 03/15/2010

ECONOMY WATCH

Keys to getting a raise

Wondering if it's possible to get any kind of a raise in today's economy? According to Sandra Naiman, author of "The High Achiever's Secret Codebook: The Unwritten Rules for Success at Work," the answer is yes. - 03/15/2010

Avoiding 'Streep Syndrome' work snubs

It's not the distinction she was going for, but Meryl Streep was forced to accept it. - 03/15/2010

Brian J. O'Connor

Bank of America ends 'courtesy' overdraft in public relations swirl

Bank of America announced Tuesday it will end its policy of allowing "courtesy" overdrafts when customers make debit-card purchases. - 03/11/2010

Businesses and consumers hold back on spending

To understand why jobs are so scarce, consider John McFarland and Nicole Rosen. The two share something in common: They're reluctant to spend freely. - 03/11/2010

DIY tax returns? More are trying

Do-it-yourself may be fine for painting a bedroom or changing your car's oil, but how do you know if it makes sense to file your own tax return? - 03/08/2010

Brian J. O'Connor

For musical motivation to exercise, do the math

Even though, after 22 years of marriage, I still find Mrs. Your Money hotter than Woodward Avenue asphalt in July, my wife has decided to hit the gym. - 03/08/2010

New program will pay homeowners to sell at loss

In an effort to end the foreclosure crisis, the Obama administration has been trying to keep defaulting owners in their homes. Now it will take a new approach: paying some to leave. - 03/08/2010

Despite laws, women earn less than men, global study says

Brussels -- Women with children earn almost a third less than men and still face too many career obstacles, a global trade union said in a report released today. - 03/08/2010

Tips on donating effectively during times of catastrophe

No sooner had the shock of Haiti's earthquake passed than Chile was struck. As the repercussions of both disasters continue, urgent need remains in those countries and around the world for charitable contributions. - 03/08/2010

4 ways to resist TV pitches

Whether it's to tighten your tummy, remove dead skin from your feet, give your hair a boost or find use for a towel that supposedly holds 12 times its weight in liquid, you may feel tempted by energetic pitchmen peddling such products via late-night infomercials. - 03/08/2010

Home office may be tax deductible

Many people who received buyouts and severance packages last year used the money to start home-based businesses. Now, they'll want to take tax deductions for their home offices. - 03/01/2010

Brian O'Connor

Financial action is a must-do

There are times when the only course of action to ensure your self-preservation is to do nothing, such as when you're faced with an enraged rhinoceros or find yourself elected to Congress. - 03/01/2010

Credit unions may offer best charge card rates

You're fed up with your bank's credit card fees and terms. Would switching to a credit union bring any relief? - 03/01/2010