sc: GI Jobs
BY JENA RICHEY
Avoid going into job fairs blindly and do homework ahead of time so you maximize your time during the event.
There are job fairs almost every day of the week in cities all across America held by organizations seeking new talent for their company. Job fairs allow companies to reduce recruiting costs and ables them to explore the “look” and “profile” of the ideal candidate for which they are searching.
Job fairs give you the opportunity to gather necessary information about the participating companies, to inquire about their current and future job openings, and to get the contact information for company representative for follow-up later.
Attending job fairs can help you with networking and practicing your interview skills. When attending job fairs, be sure to engage with those representing the companies. Ask questions and leave a positive impression they will remember later.
After reading this article, be sure to register for the upcoming Military Spouse Virtual Career Expo, where you can chat one-on-one with recruiters looking to hire military spouses. Registration is free, but seats are limited, so be sure to reserve your spot!
Job seekers who come prepared will strike up opportunities quickly, so here are five things you MUST do before attending a job fair.
1.) RESEARCH AHEAD OF TIME
There can be hundreds of companies to connect with at each job fair, but that does not mean you will have the time to speak with all of them. Research ahead of time which ones you want to get to so you make the most of your time there. When you know your targets, you can also start to customize your materials. It helps to explore the company’s website, so you know ahead of time which openings are available and the requirement for each position. Having this information will help you tailor your materials and able you to prepare for when you meet with the individuals at the job fair.
2.) PLAN TO APPROACH THE EMPLOYER
Job fairs are great for networking — it’s not about merely dropping off the résumé. You want to start a conversation with the right contacts. If there is an employer you desire to work with, but they are not recruiting for the job you want, it is essential to go over still and talk to them. You never know when things may change or a position may suddenly open up. The contacts you get there may also direct you to information regarding management in the department you want to work in. Having the appropriate contact information allows you to follow-up with that individual directly.
The key is to engage in conversation — ask insightful questions. Be someone they will remember at the end of the day or use it as an opportunity to open the door to more conversation.
3.) HAVE YOUR ELEVATOR PITCH READY
Employers are looking to hear what you can do for them, so come prepared with a quick pitch on your core-competencies, skillsets and experience, as well as how it can help solve their problems. Your elevator pitch should not exceed 60 seconds.
4.) DRESS LIKE YOU’RE GOING TO AN INTERVIEW
Job fairs will host on-the-spot interviews. Come dressed and prepared to interview with résumé in hand. Be sure to introduce yourself and be mindful of your body language, eye contact, facial expressions and tone of voice. If you get nervous, take a deep breath and keep going.
Employers take notice of those who exhibit a smile and enthusiasm. They want to see a candidate with a strong desire to work with them and the potential for growth, not someone who is merely swinging by randomly. Some may also screen your interest level by asking typical interview questions like: “What do you know about us?” and “Why do you want to work for us?” — so be prepared!
5.) PLAN TO FOLLOW UP
Like a job interview, you should plan to send a follow-up note to the contacts you meet. It is a chance to help keep you top of mind, and it gives you an opportunity to reiterate why you have what they are looking for. Before ending each conversation, be sure to collect business cards from the people you speak with and take good notes, so you know how best to personalize the follow-up note.
Approached the right way, job fairs can open many conversations and doors to job opportunities.
Speaking of job fairs, be sure to register for the upcoming Military Spouse Virtual Career Expo, where you can chat one-on-one with recruiters looking to hire military spouses. Registration is free, but seats are limited, so be sure to reserve your spot!