A good resume is very important. I initally did my own resume utilizing a standard boilerplate template and was quite pleased with it myself. After several months without finding a job and only a couple of interviews I came to the realization that my resume wasn't doing what I wanted it to do. I had the local employment office do one for me that landed me an interview, but had mistakes on it that totally blew the interview for me. Not to mention how embarrassing that lesson was.

So, I went back to square one with my original resume and did a lot of research on the subject. The turning point for me was when I decided to go against the "Pros" advice and go with a two page resume; a cover page and then the resume itself. Both pages had the same format and again, against the advice of others, I had a small photo of myself on both pages in the upper left hand corner. On the cover page I stated the position that I was applying for, a brief one paragraph work summary highlighting my strengths. Then another brief paragraph stating how I would be an asset to the company. And finally salary/wage requirements and references. I customized each resume to fit the position that I was applying for. I immediately started to get interviews and had landed a job within a couple of weeks.

I guess what I'm trying to convey is that if you don't know what you are doing, get someone that does to do it for you, but be sure to proofread it carefully before submitting for a position. Customize your resume to fit the position that you're applying for. If you're not getting results, experiment and try something different. Find out what works for you geared to the type of employment you're looking for. I hope this helps someone as much as it did me.

Happy job hunting!

Well, you sound a bit more optimistic today!. Have you registered on the illinois dept of employment security? If not, here is the link.

@ Grandma - I'm sorry you didn't find the help that you were looking for, but I don't think that you're being fair to the other members. I don't think that "no one wanted to help".

And who are "they", the contributors? The contributors on this site are no more than regular members like you that have posted X amount of posts. After you reach a certain number of posts your status is elevated to a contributor. Nothing more, nothing less. This is a common misconception among new members. I think you were looking for a site like wishuponahero.com.

I know of several members on this site that have given from their own hearts and finances to help multiple families and should be commended for that. Others prefer to remain anonymous.

 in response to aodtwo...   @ aodtwo, You can't wish your way into a job. You have to pull yourself together and dig your way out of that hole.

I have been further down than you are. I lost my house, vehicles, a good job, family photos, friends and all. It was the night that I spent in a run down, bug infested homeless shelter that I came to the realization that I had to turn myself around.

I worked hard labor jobs and saved money for a vehicle and clothes decent enough to wear to an interview. I got a small apartment and found a better job, but that wasn't good enough for me. I continued my search for a position that I would be comfortable in.

Today I'm making $50k a year and still looking. It takes diligence and perseverance. You can't give up. You have to keep faith. You have to keep fighting even when the odds are against you. You have to keep pressing forward no matter what.

I see there is an overwhelming need for help with Christmas this year. I have had a lot of requests for assistance. I'd love to help each and every one of you, but I don't have that kind of money. I've decided to help a needy family locally this year, as I did last year, and if you're looking for help you may also want to try posting in your state on the 2hands site. It is localized and makes it easier to get help in your area.

 in response to sexyvoice...   I don't know about wish upon a star, but wish upon a hero is http://www.wishuponahero.com/

occupywallstreet.org

Share-A-Pad is a new and totally FREE, non-commercial roommate and home share locator service that has the ability to match you up with your perfect share or roommate with our search alert feature. We offer video profiles, messages, photos, blogs, alerts, and even a bartering option. It's like roommate social networking that enables you to get to know your prospective roomie before making a commitment.

One of the unique features of this site is the ability to offer or request a barter for rent. What this means, if you're looking for a place to stay, is that you can exchange your services for part or all of your rent. If you are looking for a roommate you can opt in to "willing to accept a barter" in exchange for part or all rent.

The services that you can offer can be childcare, housework, yard work, handyman services, etc. It's a win/win situation for both parties!

You poor woman! How in the BLEEP are you copeing?

Here are some Indiana Legal Aid and family lawyers, some pro bono and sliding scale.

Justia

ILS

 in response to Jamie35...   @ Jamie35: You can find roommates here

http://norfolk.craigslist.org/hsw/
http://roomiesearch.net/
Local resources @ 211.org or dial 2-1-1

Hello Aidpage members! I haven't been on here for a while due to my work schedule of 70+ hrs a week. Where is Starshine? I've went through about a weeks worth of posts and haven't seen a single post of hers.

Greetings AidPage people.

I haven't posted in quite some time because my new job has had me working up to 76 hrs a week. I work so much that I can't find time to even do housework & run to the store. Three months later, I've received 2 raises and a promotion. Now that I've gotten my finances in order I need to work on building some relationships, but who's got time for relationships?

I offered to allow a needy single mom to board with me in exchange for housework and running errands. Little did I know that she was on probation and her PO wouldn't let her make the relocation. I hope they are okay.

Anyway, it took me over two years to get over two deaths (one a child, the other my Mom), loss of employment, and a love of my life that all happened within a few months of each other.

You've GOT to let go of the past before you can move forward. You can't have a rainbow w/o sunshine & rain but I've had enough rain. It's time for the sun to come out.

Thanks for your continued support.

-Troy