Making the Most of a Job Fair!

Job fairs are a great way for you to explore potential employment opportunities and
learn more about companies who are actively hiring in your neighborhood. Many
people see it as something as serious as a first interview, while others view it as an
opportunity to gather information about potential employers. Regardless of what
reason you have for attending, there are a few important things to keep in mind
before, during, and after the job fair to make it successful for you.

Before the Job Fair
• Find out what businesses will be there: The more information you can
gather beforehand, the more successful the job fair is going to be for you.
Find out what businesses are going to be at the job fair, and spend some
time doing some research about them. What types of jobs do they have
open? What kind of people are they looking for? What kinds of skills do
these people need to have?
• Develop some questions you’d like to ask employers: Narrow down your
list of businesses to include those who have positions you are interested
in, or are businesses you think you might like to work for. Then list some
questions you would like to ask the company representative at the job fair.
• Proofread your resume - at least twice: If you don’t already have one, it
is a good idea to put a resume together for a job fair. It gives employers a
blueprint of your skills and something tangible to remember you by. See
Survival Tactic #1 for how to write a resume.

At the Job Fair
• Dress the part: As with a job interview, first impressions at a job fair are
important. How you represent yourself sends an immediate message to
employers about how serious you are in your job search. It isn’t always
necessary to wear a suit to a job fair - unless you are looking for a job that
would require you to dress professionally at work. However, you should
leave the jeans and t-shirts at home. “Business Casual” is usually the most
appropriate - nice slacks and a collared shirt for men, and nice slacks or
a skirt and a blouse for women. Make sure your clothes are clean and
pressed. Avoid wearing excessive jewelry or clothing that is too short or
revealing.
• Take time to talk to employers: Don’t just drop off a resume and move
to the next booth. Take time to get additional information and make an
impression. The point is not to see how many resumes you can give to
employers in the least amount of time. It is to establish some solid job
prospects. Also, try to avoid approaching employers when they are crowded
by a large group of jobseekers. Approaching a crowded booth makes it
difficult for employers to answer your individual questions, and they are
less likely to remember you when they return to their offices.
• Use your research to appear confident and knowledgeable: If you have
done research before the job fair, you won’t have to ask the question,
“What does your company do?” If you have to ask, you are wasting valuable
time. Instead, you could be asking questions about the position or
department you are interested in. It works to your advantage if you can
tell employers how your skills match what they are looking for. Employers
want to hire people who are genuinely interested in their company. Do
your homework!
• Offer a firm handshake and maintain eye contact: Let employers know
how serious you are. Greet the employer with a firm handshake, and
maintain eye contact throughout your conversation. Showing interest and
good manners is important, regardless of the type of job you are looking
for. Every employer appreciates someone who is dedicated, conscientious,
and attentive.

After the Job Fair:
• Follow up with a thank you note: Experts agree that follow up is an
important part of attending a job fair. If you picked up a business card, or
the name of the company’s job fair representative, send a thank you note a
day or two after the job fair. This is not only polite, but will let the representative
know you paid attention, are serious about the job, and that you
are the right person for it.