Do you have list of Chicago Public Schools Head Start openings. I am looking for position in early childhood developments, and moving to the Chicago area.

We do have a link to the Head Start and other listings for school-related jobs in the Education section. You'll find links to all the Education Offices for the surrounding counties, Chicago Public Schools, and the Archdiocese. These links have job finding tools that you should be able to use to pull out preschool and kindergarten openings too.

Good Luck! Career Experts @ ChicagoJobs.org

Headhunters in Chicago

I don't know of any agencies (other than placement services - all listed in the phone book) that do direct placement. You do not mention what type of job you do or what level.

You might use a website like SimplyHired.com to search for ideas of suitable positions near where you will move. You can sort by zip code. You might also contact recruiters or placement agencies in this area, but most would want to meet you in person. Many specialize in a particular industry such as media, management or art.

A library will have a listing of recruiters. But remember that recruiters work on behalf of the employer, not the client. Also use a "phone book" website such as SuperPages or AnyWho.com to find the names of personnel/placement services.

When you arrive in Chicago, begin attending job search networking programs (many listed on chicagojobs.org) and start to target companies that can use your skills. Good luck and welcome to Chicago.

Legal Jobs in Chicago

Welcome to Chicago! Finding whatever you consider a "good job" might be a possibility if you do your homework. You might first clarify what "good" means for you.

Then, I might suggest you contact the American Bar Association to see if they have positions posted on their website. You might also try to make contact with other local legal associations, possibly in your area of interest and expertise. ChicagoJobs.org Law and Law Enforcement Jobs web page has links to local and national job sources.

I would also suggest that you try to make contact with local attorneys, speak directly to them through informational interviewing or personal connection to measure what the legal employment possibilities are in this area. You might visit one of the job aggregators like Simply Hired to evaluate job possibilities.

Whether or not someone is successful in their search depends on their qualifications, the job market, their persistence and connections.

Looking for headhunter firms

I am relocating to Chicago from London, and am looking or a job in the private equity sphere. I currently work as a strategy consultant, providing commercial advice to private equity firms considering an acquisition. Are there any headhunter firms that specialize in this field. What is the best way for me to find out what jobs are available?

Welcome to Chicago. . . . .To find recruiters that work in your field, check with a librarian. They can steer you to databases of recruiting agencies, which will also list the area of specialty. Kennedy’s Book of Recruiters is a good one. Utilize, also, the many other business databases available at the library. Also, use the Recruiters list from this website and online business sources such as Hoover’s.

For job listings, try an executive site like 6figurejobs.com or Theladders.com – A Google search of “financial jobs” may uncover more.

When you come to Chicago, start joining some financial member associations or networking groups that focus on this area.

The Career Experts @ ChicagoJobs.org

Michigan to Chicago

Welcome to Chicago! A job search IS overwhelming, and especially if you are unfamiliar and unconnected with the new city. It sounds like you have some strong skills that indeed can be transferable. I don't have the benefit of knowing all that you have attempted, but here are a few more suggestions.

1. Yes, networking is a great way to make connections and get your foot in the door. If you haven't done so, check the Chicagojobs.org website for a list of local networking events. Also try a website called Techvenue that lists more. The Skokie Library has a monthly networking group and JVS has Career Connections on a regular basis in the downtown area. Check into lectures, associations and classes that would draw the types of people that work in companies you are interested in.
2. Make sure you have an understanding of the job requirements of available positions and be certain that your skills and resume are tailored to meet those needs. If your resume is too general, you may be seen as a "jack of all trades," rather than a master.
3. Target your search by using the library to develop a list of companies that could benefit from your skills and begin checking their individual websites for available positions. (You can also use the job aggregators like simplyhired.com or indeed.com and set up alerts.
4. Avoid an attitude of desperation (though that can be hard!) - so you might want to find part time work to help with finances. Unfortunately, finding the right fit can be a lengthy process - no guarantees.
5. You might also try to get some work from temporary agencies and ask to be placed in the types of companies you are interested in. Sometimes that allows you to meet the right people - from the inside!!!

Moving to Chicago to Find a Job

You sound like a thoughtful, organized young man. Chicago will be lucky to have you! Yes, you are in a tough predicament. If you are not here, you cannot begin to pound the streets of Chicago properly and would not be available for interview. There are no guarantees in the job search process and there is no way to know how long it might take you to become settled, and financially able to manage rent and expenses.

Check out temporary housing, like the YMCA, or a home sharing arrangement, or check listings on Craig's List. Chicago is a big city, with lots of jobs in a variety of roles and industries. Networking is always the best way to secure a position. If you move here, it will be helpful for you to participate in local career support programs or other networking events, start to meet people who may help you along the road.

Though you state that you are not interested in a long range career in retail, you might have to find a job doing just that while you are building contacts and experience in other areas. ChicagoJobs.org Job Listings site has links to most of the local newspapers and their classifieds including Chicagojobs.com, a website that provides listings from many local Chicago area newspapers. Rather than using the general websites, check out the main sites of the banks that are in this area.

Also, tap into your alumni association of your college, see if anyone lives in the Chicago area. The job search process is like a big jigsaw - you just keep placing pieces until the picture starts to take shape. I have a sense that you will be a success, but it takes one baby step at a time.