A job fair is an event where employers and candidates have the opportunity to meet one another in an open forum setting. These fairs usually charge companies to have a booth at the event, which can be a cost-effective way for them to meet many new candidates. There is generally no charge or a modest charge for candidates to attend. Job fairs are busy and sometimes noisy, but they are a great opportunity for candidates and employers to get some face-to-face exposure with one another. Here are some ways that job seekers can maximize their experience:
BEFORE THE JOB FAIR:
In advance, try to get a listing of employers who will be participating. Research the companies that you are most interested in, or who are most likely to be interested in you. Prepare and practice your 30 to 60 second “commercial.” Company representatives will be inundated with hundreds of new candidates to meet. Your being concise and articulate in your introduction will be most impressive, and will help you to stand out in the crowd. Bring a pad folio or pocket folder to collect company brochures and business cards. Have enough resumes prepared in advance to take with you. A one-page version, laser printed, is advisable. If you normally use a two-page resume, condense it into one for the fair, and then send the full version to the company as a follow up. Plan to dress and accessorize as you would for a professional job interview. When in doubt, err on the conservative side. This is not the time or place to make your personal fashion statement.
WHEN YOU ARRIVE AT THE JOB FAIR:
Don’t try to be among the first to arrive, as job fairs are usually front-end heavy. Consider going in two hours after the start. The crowd of candidates will have thinned out some, giving you a better chance for individual attention with the company recruiters. As you enter the fair, pick up the master book of participating companies. Step to one side and review the book, highlighting companies you are most interested in. Do a walk through first, getting a layout of the event, and review brochures of the companies you want to know more about before introducing yourself. Most participating employers will have specific job openings that they are looking to fill immediately. Don’t pass by a target employer, however, if they are not looking for your skill set just now. You can get to know them (and they you) for future opportunities. Take advantage of this. When you meet a company representative, offer a smile, a firm handshake and your brief commercial. Then ask a question to stimulate some dialogue… “Does my background fit for the type of employees your company is looking for?”…….”What is the hiring outlook at your company this year?”……..”Will you be offering interviews on site today?” If a representative shows an interest in you and the discussion continues, be considerate about not taking up too much of his or her time. Watch for signals that they want to speak to other candidates as well, and offer to contact them after the fair. Don’t forget to ask for the business card of each person that you speak with, so that you can follow-up. Job fairs are also excellent opportunities to network with other candidates. In a foyer or hospitality area, look for interesting people to meet. Take the initiative to introduce yourself and explore from there.
AFTER THE JOB FAIR:
The responsibility is on you, the job seeker, to follow up afterward. Send a brief thank you note to each company representative that you met, including another copy of your resume. In your letter, try to reference something that was said in your discussion to help them to remember who you are. Don’t expect immediate results from a job fair. This type of event is designed for employers to meet a large number of potential candidates for their current or near-future needs. You will need to continue to stay in touch with the companies you are interested in.
