Find the Local Hidden Treasure for Job Seekers

With the national unemployment rate at 8.2 percent, even the most marketable job seeker can find it hard to stay energized.

“Patience, perseverance and staying positive for the length of the search is the biggest challenge for job seekers today,” , executive director of Lake Forest’s (CRC), said. 

Leahy said many job seekers make the mistake of relying on the internet to conduct their search.

“If you sit in front of the computer and apply for 30 jobs a day, what happens to your applications? They go into a black hole,” Leahy said. “They won’t get anyone’s attention.” As for seeking job search advice online, “You’ll get one answer or too many answers, and you’ll probably be confused,” she added.

Luckily for Lake Forest, Lake Bluff and Deerfield job seekers, a job search partner with over 20 years experience is nearby to help. Career Resource Center is a non-profit organization offering seminars and networking sessions. 

“(At CRC) job candidates will get personalized attention, comradery, and very objective personal advice on how to conduct your job search,” Leahy said.

This month, CRC’s programming includes guest speakers tackling a wide range of topics, including applying to federal jobs, revamping a resume and how to best utilize cloud computing. For the full calendar of events, click the schedule in the photo gallery.

“We have the ability to bring in new programs every month,” Leahy said. “Speakers come in offering their talent and knowledge pro-bono. Our candidates get to see a very broad spectrum of experience and point of view.”

Leahy said the emphasis on technology in this month’s programming aims to help job seekers demonstrate that they’re current. “(Cloud) is a brand new program. For job seekers, it’s important to have your work in the cloud so you can access it wherever you are. It’s critical to be familiar with new language in technology.”

Programming is free for CRC members. Most programs are $10 for non-members with some free. CRC also offers free networking sessions open to the public.

“Our networking sessions are intentionally small,” Leahy said. “It’s a place where people who are not veteran networkers can learn to be comfortable networking when they attend bigger sessions.” Anyone planning to attend a networking session should come in knowing what they want to accomplish, with resume and business cards handy.

“We’ve been doing this for 20 years,” Leahy said. “Our candidates have a strong track record for success. It helps to have support during your job search."

CRC offers free seminars and personalized consultations for members – membership is $145. For more information, visit Career Resource Center’s website or call 847-295-5626.