by P. Onh

Created on: May 29, 2009   Last Updated: June 02, 2009

Are you seeking employment in Champaign, Illinois? When you unexpectedly lose your job, finding employment becomes your top priority. If it's been awhile since your last job search, the whole process may be overwhelming, and you don't need that stress on top of figuring out how you're going to pay all the bills. But the process can be broken into manageable chunks, and the first step is tracking down those elusive job openings. With unemployment in the United States nearing ten percent, the job market is getting scarce. How do you go about maximizing your local job search?

Don't put all your eggs in one basket! Monster.com may be a great resource for job openings, but what if a company chooses not to pay to advertise their position on Monster? Contrary to popular belief, Monster.com doesn't list all available openings, and you may miss out on possibilities if you don't explore all the paths. Look at it this way: employers need to fill their open headcount just as you need to find a job. They are looking for ways to attract candidates just as you are looking for openings. You just need to figure out how to connect with the employer. The trick is to know all of the resources available to employers for job listings, so you can be aware of every opportunity.

Internet job listings are the most convenient way to find positions. You can gather large amounts of information is a small amount of time. Some of the Internet portals are nationwide, but can be used to find local jobs via search criteria, while other sites are specific to local jobs. Try these sites, including both local and national listings:

http://champaign.jobs.topusajobs.com/

http://www.jobs.net/Illinois-Champaign.htm

http://www.monster.com
http://www.careerbuilder.net
http://www.hotjobs.yahoo.com
http://www.employmentguide.com
http://www.snagajob.com
http://www.flipdog.com
http://www.job-hunt.com

Don't forget to check the News-Gazette and other local publications.

Many of these listings also advertise upcoming job fairs. Print copies of your resume, dress to impress, and hit the tables. At a career fair, ask questions about the company to show that you're interested in what they do. Be careful not to spend the entire time talking about yourself or your qualifications, unless you get lucky enough to land an interview on the spot. Even if you do, remember to express interest in the business.

If your skills are in retail or food service, watching for signage may be your best bet. Keep your eyes open for "Now Hiring"

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