This is a guest post by Brandy on making the most out of a Job Fair. You can read the guidelines to guest posting at our write for us page.
Job fairs are one of the most crucial tools to use to help find your next big, new career opportunity. The important thing is to be prepared so you can make the most of this valuable resource. More than likely, there are several job fairs in your area and field that you can take advantage of. If you have been to a job fair before without getting the results you wanted or expected, it is even more important to brush up on some tips to make this work for you. Otherwise you are merely wasting time.
To make the most of the job fair market, here are some things that should help you:
- Do Your Research – You probably have an idea of some of the companies that will be represented at the job fair. Doing your research on these companies is important for a couple of reasons.
- First of all, you should be able to impress upon these companies that you are already familiar with what they do so the company feels you have some idea of what would be expected of you.
- In addition to that, it is always a good idea to know if a company is a good match for you in what they do, have to offer their employees or as far as pay goes. For example, before deciding on a car insurance provider, you would probably want to know what their coverage is as well as their rates instead of choosing one blindly. Companies will respect you for doing the research.
- Brush Up On Your Interview Skills– You should be well rehearsed in the art of mastering the interview, but if not make sure you do so before a job fair. Keep in mind you are competing with many other qualified applicants for the same opportunities and need to be able to set yourself apart.
- Study up on tips that help, especially if you have had not great success at previous job fairs. Keep in mind you may be interviewed on the spot so arrive prepared to handle this possible scenario.
- Always Arrive Early– Just as you would arrive early for a job interview, you should do the same for a job fair. This gives you time to mentally prepare as well as scope out the layout and also find out if any last minute surprise companies are represented.
- Find the areas where the companies are you know you want to interview with and try to make it a point to let them see you there early. Companies love eagerness and enthusiasm even at a job fair.
- Don’t Neglect The Wrap Up– Even if you only briefly speak to someone at one of the companies you are hopeful for, make it a point to be professional.
- Thank them for their time speaking with your or answering questions. Ask them how to proceed or what to expect following the job fair.
- Make sure you leave a copy of your resume, application if possible and business card with contact information.
- Finally make sure you also have a business card from the company especially with a direct way to contact anyone you met.
Just as you take steps to be a smart shopper when it comes to making purchases, be wise about how to shop companies as well. Find out about perks from certain companies that you may not have otherwise considered. Most importantly, be prepared to sell instead of buy once you find the potential target market you want. Sell your ideal company on the fact that you are the best candidate for the position so you both can get the end result you want.