Q. Two years ago, I lost my job because I supported a co-worker who made a sexual harassment claim against our employer. I sued and we settled out of court. But in a depressed job market, I was forced to take a lesser job. It’s been a hard road back. Recently, I’ve had several promotions but even though it’s been promised, I haven’t yet been given the proper title for the job I perform. I now think the only way up is out. Is it OK to use the title I deserve on my resume, even though it’s not official?

A. No, it’s not OK. Use your legitimate title but describe exactly what you actually are doing. You can discuss it further in the job interview. And never mention anything about your previous lawsuit in your job hunt.

Q. I keep getting into situations at work where I have a conflict with someone powerful – and I end up out on the street. I try really hard to get along with others, but I seem to threaten certain people. Now I’m out of work again and getting very depressed at this familiar scenario. What can I do?

A. It’s hard not being yourself at all times, but, unfortunately you do have to temper your personality. Since you say you often are a lightning rod for “powerful” people, it may be better, sometimes, just to keep quiet. Very.

Q. Earlier this year, I got my certification in medical insurance billing and coding. I currently do volunteer work in the medical records department of a hospital. I don’t want to be a volunteer forever – I need to earn a salary. Will my volunteer work perhaps lead to gainful employment, or am I just wasting my time?

A. Volunteer work is a very important entree, and I congratulate you for using this avenue to get to where you want to go. Just make sure everyone knows what you want to do and be on the alert for any openings.

Carol Kleiman is the author of “Winning the Job Game: The New Rules for Finding and Keeping the Job You Want” (Wiley, $16.95).