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You’re about to transition out of the military and you might have some apprehension about how you’re going to make the move to a career in the public or private sector. You’ve heard of an upcoming job fair in your area. Here are some tips to prepare you for the experience and help you stand out to potential employers:
Before the job fair, do your homework:
- Research the companies that will be at the job fair. What field do you want to pursue and which companies have jobs available in those fields? If possible go to the employers’ web sites and apply online.
- Update your resume for the company and position you wish to apply. See your military installation for resume help. Each service has their own transition assistance program.
Day of the job fair:
- If not in uniform, dress one step “above” the position you seek. You may be speaking face to face with your next employer. First impressions are everything.
- Bring a folder, a notepad and a pen. Other than holding your newly updated resumes, you can also put documents that you want to hold onto from the employers you meet (i.e. business cards, applications) in the folder. You’ll need the pen and pad for the next tip.
- Sign in and take the available list of employers or other useful information. Locate the employers you’re interested in and begin making the rounds. You may want to get comfortable by starting with a few “lower priority” employers. Keep notes of what you discussed, and with whom, for later reference.
- Attend panels. Some job fairs will have a panel of successfully transitioned veterans who will discuss their struggles and solutions. They will gladly offer advice to anyone who asks. Write down questions or concerns before the fair and ask the panel members for their advice.
After the job fair:
- Follow up immediately with the employers you spoke to at the fair. They just met hundreds of applicants. Secure your spot in their memory with a friendly call or email on who you are, where you met them, and the things you talked about.
For more information on getting the
most out of a job fair
Start by reading the Transitioner’s Intel whitepaper for a
detailed plan on How to Work a Job Fair.
You can also sign up here to access a
library of free resources to help with your transition
into the civilian workforce.
Good Luck on your job search!
As you make the transition to civilian life, and look to reassess your life insurance needs, USBA offers competitive rates for military transitioners and their families.
About USBA and how we serve veterans
USBA is a nonprofit organization providing affordable group life insurance plans and other financial services to active duty and retired military, as well as honorably discharged veterans, National Guard, Reserve members, federal employees and their families. USBA partners with New York Life Insurance Company, the underwriter for USBA group life insurance plans. New York Life has the highest ratings for financial strength currently awarded to any life insurer by all four major rating agencies. Visit our website for more information.