As the U.S. unemployment rate increases--at 6.5 percent, it has reached a 14-year high--all eyes are on President-elect Barack Obama and the Democratic Congress set to take the reins in January. Will the new leadership provide relief?

Despite campaign rhetoric and political squabbling enveloping him, Joe the Plumber is raising bigger questions: How do we define middle class? The middle class is obviously squeezed, but why?

With high energy costs bearing down on individuals and companies alike, green industries offer viable solutions to our world's energy fix, and plenty of jobs.

Coveting entry to Ivy League schools is an American tradition. A recent PayScale study adds another reason to seek acceptance: Ivy League grads out-earn their liberal-arts colleagues.

Tom Brokaw has lent on-air stability to "Meet the Press" since taking over for his late friend, Tim Russert. Less widely known is that Brokaw has played a pivotal role behind the scenes, within NBC and in its dealings with the campaign of John McCain.

Changing jobs? Careers in information technology, health care and education look especially promising from 2006-2016, with fast growth and handsome salaries, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

A bad work experience may send you over the edge, but don't burn bridges once you opt to leave a job--you never know where your career path might lead.

Be prepared to discuss your salary history with a prospective employer, experts say, but tailor your approach to the circumstances so you don't put yourself at a disadvantage.

The bad news from Wall Street and Washington is disconcerting, but not the end of the world. Whether you're laid off or content with your current position, there are steps you can take to make your career-life better.

Sen. Barack Obama's presidential campaign is taking a closer look at the pay gap between men and women, according to a Wall Street Journal article, in hopes of retaining Sen. Hillary Clinton's female backers and offsetting Sarah Palin's impact.