When searching for a job opening what you learn is that thousands of other people are going after it too.
Many job seekers end up at the employment office looking for work.
But with tens of thousands of people unemployed - they're finding themselves battling each other for the few jobs open.
It's a question more and more Oregonians are having to think about it.
I'd probably be on employment sitting at home, said Scott Bodry.
Find another one, there has to be jobs out there somewhere, said Pat Welch.
Maybe not. Over 2,400 people applied for 110 positions at the new Standford's opening up in Clackamas.
I feel very, very, very lucky, said Tiffany Stephens who was one of the fortunate ones at Standford's.
We interviewed people with masters degrees just simply looking for work with no experience in restaurant industry whatsoever but they were still just needing a job, said Scott Bodry, GM of Stanford's.
The dire job market is forcing many people to look in places they would have never considered before.
Many out of work Oregonians are seeking help from temp agencies like Boly/Welch.
There are a lot of people that are calling that feel defeated and are coming to us and saying I've applied for 100 positions nothing is coming through and unfortunately some of them are very talented people, said Pat Welch.
Melissa Adams is one of the lucky ones. She found a new job quickly...but not without making a change.
The key is definitely being willing to change industries, change careers even, said Melissa Adams.
Adams switched careers: from high tech to real estate. Candice Dempsey is still looking, a year later.
I know that I'll get a job I just have to believe I will, said Candice Dempsey.
Though at times it can be grim - I just feel it's critical to keep your spirits up and not be overwhelmed by who else is unemployed you are one person and need one job and that can happen, said Dempsey.
Employment experts tell us the key is to stay positive. It will help you get a job.
Job-hunting can be a grim experience in down times
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