IDES Website Becomes Mobile Friendly
Upgrades Help Workers Apply for Jobs 4.4 Million Unique Visitors in Past Year

[May 17, 2014]  CHICAGO – People using mobile devices can better interact and communicate with the Illinois Department of Employment Security following website improvements launched this week, the Department said today.

Automatically sizing to a user’s mobile device and the ability to sign-up for news alerts are key improvements that make the website’s tools more user-friendly. The enhancements will improve the user’s experience no matter their comfort level with the technology. 

“These new website tools will help workers gather information, update resumes and apply for jobs,” IDES Director Jay Rowell said. “The latest news on career information, hiring events and no-cost HR services for employers is now available whether you are sitting comfortably at your computer, doing a quick search on your tablet or breezing through your smart phone.” 

Workers can use the website to apply for unemployment insurance, certify for benefits and manage their account. They can apply for 150,000 jobs at Illinoisjoblink.com, the state’s help wanted hiring board operated by IDES. Employers can confirm a worker’s eligibility for unemployment insurance, research data to evaluate business opportunities and review 75,000 resumes. 

The IDES website has evolved into a critical tool for employers and employees and has had more than 4.4 million unique visitors in the past year. Information is available in English, Spanish, Simplified Chinese and Russian. Interpreters are available for other languages. 

State agencies are working together to deliver services to unemployed Illinois workers. Access to services for basic needs such as job training, food, clothing and shelter are located at www.ides.illinois.gov/assistance.

[Text received; ILLINOIS DEPARTMENT OF EMPLOYMENT SECURITY]