jobs Listings

Tips on preparing for your job interview.

Research the company and the position you are applying for. Be familiar with their mission, values, products, and services, so you can speak intelligently about how you can contribute to their goals.

Review the job listing and requirements, and match your qualifications and experiences with them.

Prepare answers to common interview questions such as “Why do you want to work here?” and “What are your strengths and weaknesses?”

Prepare a list of questions to ask the interviewer, this will show your interest in the company and the role.

Dress professionally and arrive early to the interview. Being punctual and looking the part is a good way to make a positive first impression.

Bring copies of your resume, a portfolio, references or any other relevant documentation.

Practice active listening and avoid interrupting the interviewer. Show that you are engaged and interested in what they are saying.

Be honest and authentic. Don’t exaggerate your qualifications or try to be someone you’re not.

Be mindful of your body language, make eye contact, and smile.

Send a thank-you note or email after the interview to reiterate your interest in the position and thank the interviewer for their time.

As an employee in Chicago, you have the following rights:

The right to be free from discrimination: You cannot be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, military status, or any other protected characteristic.

The right to a safe and healthy work environment: Your employer is required to provide a workplace that is free from recognized hazards that are likely to cause death or serious physical harm.

The right to a minimum wage: The current minimum wage in Chicago is $15 per hour for non-tipped employees(Check the City of chicago website for updated information as minimum wages change over time)

The right to overtime pay: If you work more than 40 hours in a workweek, your employer must pay you time-and-a-half for the overtime hours.

The right to take time off for certain reasons: You have the right to take time off for certain reasons, such as jury duty, military service, or voting.

The right to form a union: You have the right to form, join, or assist a labor organization, and to engage in collective bargaining.

The right to file a complaint: You have the right to file a complaint with the Illinois Department of Labor if you believe your rights have been violated.

It is important to note that some of these rights may be limited by the size of the company or the type of employment contract you have. Additionally, some of these rights may be subject to change based on local, state or federal laws.

Following are some job related websites you may find helpful.

City of Chicago Jobs: The City of Chicago has a website dedicated to listing job openings for city positions. You can find the website at: https://www.chicago.gov/city/en/depts/dhr/provdrs/emp/svcs/city_of_chicago_job_openings.html

Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) Jobs: The CTA has a website dedicated to listing job openings for positions such as bus operators, train operators, and maintenance staff. You can find the website at: https://www.transitchicago.com/careers/

Chicago Public Schools (CPS) Jobs: CPS has a website dedicated to listing job openings for positions such as teachers, administrators, and support staff. You can find the website at: https://www.cps.edu/careers/

Chicago Park District Jobs: The Chicago Park District has a website dedicated to listing job openings for positions such as park supervisors, lifeguards, and maintenance staff. You can find the website at: https://www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/jobs-volunteering

Workforce Development: The City of Chicago has a department called the Department of Family and Support Services (DFSS) which offers a range of services, including job training and placement. You can find more information at: https://www.chicago.gov/city/en/depts/fss/provdrs/workforce_development.html

Illinois JobLink: This is a free online job search resource provided by the Illinois Department of Employment Security. It allows job seekers to search for job openings and create a profile to be matched with potential employers. You can find the website at: https://www.illinoisjoblink.com/

ChicagoWorks: This is an online job board that lists job openings in the Chicago area, including both white-collar and blue-collar positions. You can find the website at: https://chicagoworks.com/

Chicago Urban League: This is a non-profit organization that provides job training and placement services, as well as other support services for communities of color. You can find more information at: https://www.thechicagourbanleague.org/

Goodwill Industries of Southeastern Wisconsin and Metropolitan Chicago: This organization provides job training and placement services, as well as other support services for individuals with barriers to employment. You can find more information at: https://www.goodwillsew.com/

Chicago Jobs Council: This is a non-profit organization that provides job training and placement services, as well as other support services for low-income individuals and communities. You can find more information at: https://www.chicagojobscouncil.org/

LinkedIn: LinkedIn is a professional networking website that allows job seekers to search for job openings in Chicago and apply directly to the job posting. It is also a great platform to connect with people in your industry and expand your professional network.

It is important to note that some of these links and phone numbers may change over time, so it’s always a good idea to check the website of the organization for the most current information.