A major part of job search is getting yourself out there. What better way than to attend a career fair. First of all, it is going to help you get more comfortable talking about yourself to strangers and builds a little confidence. If you are going to go to one, do some serious preparation.
First, find out what companies will be there and research the ones you need to see because they are on your target list. It sounds obvious, but, if you don't see companies from your target list at the fair, don't bother attending.
Second, visit their websites and see what jobs they have posted. Generally, companies that attend a career fair have posted jobs. If you can't find them on their website, check Indeed.
Third, hopefully you have found an appropriate posting, customize your resume for that one job and put together your stunning cover letter that explains why you want to work for that company and list some of your top qualifications for the job.
Fourth, wait in line. Yes, you might have to. But use this time to meet other job seekers and share industry news.
Fifth, with interest and enthusiasm, ask good questions of the recruiter at the table. 2-3 might be all you have time for. You want to leave them with a positive, interested and qualified mental picture of you!
Sixth, ask when and how to follow up. "We'll call you" isn't good enough, ask when you can call if you don't hear from them. Nicely, but assertively.
Seventh, follow up, don't give up!
Companies are not giving away jobs at a career fair. They are there to "source human capital". They are looking for the people who are better than the average bear.
When I worked in HR, I represented the company at career fairs. We had two boxes under the skirted table. One box was for resumes we would take back to the office and the other box, well, it is painful to admit...
Stand out for being the professional that you are.
"First, find out what companies will be there and research the ones you need to see because they are on your target list. It sounds obvious, but, if you don't see companies from your target list at the fair, don't bother attending." I think it's worth going, even if there aren't companies on your target list. Maybe you'll find out about some companies that you weren't aware of. Job Fairs force you to get up, get dressed up, and get out with people. It's a nice change of pace for a day and the networking opportunities are wide open. I have run into old classmates, or even better, someone I knew manning the booth for a company! I wouldn't go to a job fair that was industry specific if that wasn't my industry (like something for IT if I'm in marketing).
Posted by: Deidre Dutcher | February 26, 2009 at 09:25 AM