With little relief in sight on the employment scene, job hunters have to be savvier and more careful than ever about what they choose to spend money on as they search.

Luckily, one of the best ways to find a job — networking — is practically free.

1. Network online » If you don’t have a free profile on LinkedIn, get one, an employment portal that links to job Web sites, employment offices and articles with tips. You also can connect with old friends and classmates on the networking site.

2. Network in real life » Don’t neglect networking in person just because you’re searching online. That’s where the real connections are made, and they don’t have to break the bank either.

3. Go back to school » No, we don’t mean for a new degree, which could be helpful but certainly won’t be cheap. Check your college’s career center for new contacts and leads. Many college centers now cater to alumni, not just recent graduates, and offer career advice, help with résumés and connections to other alumni.

4. Know when to hire professionals » There’s a thriving industry built around people looking for jobs, but spending on head hunters, career coaches and résumé writers doesn’t always pay off, experts said. Challenger said never to pay a company that promises you success, for instance.

5. Be methodical » Planning each step of your job search will help you save money and

time. If you know you’ll be visiting a city for a job interview, plan your trip at least two weeks ahead so transportation costs less and so you can arrange other interviews or meetings, Challenger said.6. It’s tax-deductible » Keep your receipts for things like travel and photocopying your resume. Some expenses incurred during a job search in your current occupation are tax deductible, Challenger said.