Lake Cook Career Collaborative
Get expert help for getting ahead in your current job or finding a new one: the Lake Cook Career Collaborative provides information and resources available to you at no cost from your local library. Look here for free webinars, too; no library card required. The collaborative is a partnership among Indian Trails, Northbrook, Vernon Area, and Zion Benton public libraries.
VISIT CareerCollab.org
Improve your skills
Take online courses to polish your skills or acquire new skills. Log into these resources with your Vernon Area Library card number.
- Gale Courses
Explore 350+ online courses taught by experts. New sessions of six-week professional and personal development courses begin each week.
- LinkedIn Learning This link opens in a new window
Learn at your own pace from industry experts who are passionate about teaching. Thousands of video tutorials on a variety of subjects — programming, business, design, photography, marketing, and more.
Research employers
Learn about companies and organizations that interest you. Log into these resources with your Vernon Area Library card number.
- Reference Solutions (formerly ReferenceUSA)
Use this directory of 24 million U.S. businesses to create your list of job prospects. Filter by location, size, type of business, and other criteria. Includes job postings from Indeed.com.
Careers & jobs: general info
- Action Verbs for ResumesLists hundreds of action oriented words to help you build out a descriptive resume.
- The Balance: CareersInfo and expertise on career paths, job outlook, and finding work, no matter your situation.
- Career & Networking CenterA variety of resources for individuals in career transition or looking for professional development. CNC’s robust program includes coaching, webinars, accountability, and networking groups for job search or career success.
- CareerOneStopOccupation, career, and industry info from the U.S. Department of Labor. Includes training resources.
- Occupational Outlook HandbookProfiles hundreds of occupations, describing what they do, the work environment, median salary, current demand, and future prospects. From the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
- 10 Current Resume Trends & Forecasts for 2021/2022 You Should Be Thinking AboutRelevant list of tips and trends in creating an updated resume that will get you noticed.
- Visual CV Knowledge CenterJob search tools, blog, as well as tools and guidance for creating and using a visual resume or CV in your browser.
- Your Resume Probably Needs a Pandemic Makeover.Timely and relevant article on how to update your resume to reflect pandemic related gaps or changes.
Job search & assistance
Local resources
- Chicago Tribune JobsSearch job listings on the newspaper's website.
- IllinoisJobLink.comConnects job-seekers with employers looking for workers. Provides one-stop shopping for workers at every level and of all backgrounds. Includes job opportunities (posted by employers), resume resources, virtual job fairs, free training opportunities, and more.
- Illinois workNet CenterWorkforce development resources for job-seekers and employers. Includes virtual job fairs, training, and other services.
- Job Center of Lake CountyProvides a variety of services for job-seekers, including career counseling, training guidance, financial aid for education and training, and more. Part of Illinois workNet Center.
Job Search Engines & Websites
- CareerBuilderSearches local and regional jobs. Includes salary tools, resume builder, job alerts, and other resources.
- GlassDoorGet salary insights about specific jobs for specific employers and reviews describing the work life at companies.
- Google for JobsLearn to effectively use Google for your job search.
- IndeedSearches thousands of company career sites and job boards. You can also post your resume and research companies.
- LinkedInProfessional networking site. Also includes job listings.
- MonsterFind job listings; also, resume help, salary tools, and career advice.
- SimplyHiredSearches local and regional jobs, including internships. Includes a salary calculator, resume builder, job trends, and other resources.
Job Search by Industry
- AIA Career CenterArchitecture
- allretailjobsRetail
- DiceTechnology
- efinancialcareersAccounting, finance, and asset management
- IdealistPublic service
- LawJobs.comLegal
- Science CareersScience
- USAJobsGovernment