GRAYSON, Ky. (AP) - Some residents in eastern Kentucky can take advantage of a new opportunity designed to help them find a job.

The Carter County Job Club held its first meeting in Grayson last week and is looking for more people to join, according to The Independent. It's open to drop-ins, though they are encouraged to come early for an orientation, and it's free to participate.

The group of job seekers meets weekly with local work force professionals so they can improve their job searches. In addition, they can network, share job leads and offer support to each other.

Traci Nolen, job club coordinator for the Eastern Kentucky Concentrated Employment Program Inc., said statitstics show 80 percent of job club participants find employment compared to 15 percent of those who search alone.

"If you're really serious about finding a job, you should take this opportunity to take your search up to the next level," Nolen said. "Our job club will give you the tools, skills, job leads, and understanding of how the job market works that can help you get hired."

She said workforce professionals, local business people and other guests are invited to speak to members, which allows them to learn more about successful job-searching techniques and allows them to network.

The Kentucky Office for Employment & Training and Northeast Kentucky Community Action Agency sponsors the club.

Networking is one of the most important opportunities the job club provides because it gives job seekers a chance to "know the people who know the people who have the jobs," Nolan said. She said that means members are able to glean information about the "hidden job market," which are openings that exist but aren't advertised.

"We welcome anyone who wants to take control of their job search and get results," Nolen said. "Job club works, and we want it to work for you."