Many cubicle dwellers are finding new life in skilled trades, writes Fortune’s Anne Fisher in her June 19 Ask Annie column. If you’re thinking of changing careers, would you consider learning a skilled trade? Why or why not? If you’re currently working in a field that required technical training instead of college, what do you like (and dislike) about it? Hiring managers, what job skills are most difficult to find now?

Believe it or not, two-thirds of U.S. employers plan to give pay hikes before the year is over, according to a new survey, writes Fortune’s Anne Fisher in her June 12 Ask Annie column. Has your company cut or frozen pay in the past few months? Have you asked for a raise lately? Did you get it? If so, what do you think helped you the most in persuading your boss you’re worth more? Did asking help or hurt your relationship with higher-ups? If you’re in a position to give raises, how do you decide who gets one?

The number of “discouraged workers” — those who have not actively looked for work in the past four weeks, primarily because they believe no jobs are available for them — shot up 70% between the first quarter of 2008 and 2009, writes Fortune’s Anne Fisher in her June 4 Ask Annie column.

Have you or a loved one endured a long, discouraging job hunt? What have you found to keep your spirits up and help you stay motivated? If you’ve gotten hired after a long search, what do you think was most helpful in landing your new job?