GETTING THE MOST OUT OF JOB FAIRS  

The key is to treat job fair events like an interview; come prepared and have a strategy to get noticed in the crowd. Look professional, have that firm handshake and keep the following suggestions in mind.  

PREPARATION Be prepared to initiate conversation with recruiters, prepare a few lines of introduction that summarizes who you are, your education, experience and type of opportunities you are seeking. Ask the right questions, for example: If I apply through your website what are the recruiters looking for? If a short list is prepared by a computer scanning program, what are the key word searches for this position? Could we meet up for 20 minutes? I would like to know more about the opportunities for growth in your organization. Check out employer websites in advance so that you may speak with recruiters about specific job opportunities. Also come prepared with different versions of resumes which are industry or job specific.  

EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS On your own it can be difficult to access information regarding programs and courses offered by educational institutions from their website. An experienced counselor can look at your resume, hear your goals and advise you as to the most comprehensive co-op or certification courses in your field.  

STRATEGY Visit every booth and try not to judge the opportunities available by the company name or industry. A manufacturing company may have opportunities in administration or IT. Make sure to follow-up if a recruiter asks to you apply on-line or contact a specific individual; this just may just be your opportunity. Be prepared for an on-site interview, you just may be that special person who the recruiter would like to interview or introduce you to a department head. Ensure that you can intelligently articulate well thought out responses.  

DRESS TO IMPRESS Dress as you would for an interview, most of the recruitment staff who come to fairs are hiring managers, human resources executives and professionals from recruiting departments. These are the same individuals who you would be meeting with during a formal interview. Focus first on your discussion regarding your candidacy and second on the freebies. Make sure to leave a professional impression. Job fairs events are not a time to stock up on office supplies. Remember to use your interpersonal skills; make eye contact, offer a firm handshake, and show that you are just the person they are looking for!