How to get most of a Job Fair

How to get most of a Job Fair What is a Job Fair?  It’s a Job “Market”!  It’s an Organization, Industry, and Job Info Bonanza!  Employers expect to interact with clients seeking employment and those researching careers and employers  It’s a Networking Paradise!  Filling open positions is hard work, time consuming, and expensive! Recruiters are authorized to hire candidates on the day of the fair  It’s a relaxed atmosphere What’s So Great About a Job Fair?      A lot of employers in one place Employers are looking for YOU You Can get hired faster! Good place to get career/industry information It can help you become a job search pro! The Golden Rule: “PREPARE”  Develop a 60 second “infomercial” (your elevator pitch)  Develop answers to possible questions  Think about other key points you want to make  Write down skills you used in previous jobs/schooling  Think about those scary questions  Polish, update, and proof-read your resume That 60 Second Infomercial – INTRODUCTION- Introduce yourself, offer a firm hand shake and a resume – OBJECTIVE- tell the employer why you are there and what sort of employment you seek – PREPARE- A Brief summary of your skills, education, experience, strengths, etc. – REINFORCE - Your interest and thank the employer More Preparation….        Investigate companies attending the job fair Write out your plan of attack Practice your 60-second infomercial Check the driving directions to the Job Fair Make sure your mode of transportation is ready Prepare plenty of copies of your resume Plan to take a folder or pad-folio, not a briefcase The Day Before the Big Day! Decide On Your “Look” – Business attire – Keep it simple – Limit jewelry – Cover tattoos/remove excessive piercings Practice your 60 second infomercial some more Relax (before), get plenty of rest Today is the Day!  Arrive early  Relax and compose yourself after your commute  Practice your 60 second infomercial one more time  Leave your coat in the car  Check the location of each employer on your list  Smile and get ready to sell Yourself !!!  Collect contact information (business cards) for the key, potential employers After the Job Fair  Reflect on what you did well and what you can improve upon  Send thank-you notes to reinforce your interest in the position and company  Telephone or email your contact within in a week to 10 days to follow-up Job Fair Mistakes (1)  Saying, "I'll take anything" or "I don't know" when asked about interests shows a lack of focus.  Dressing unprofessionally or in casual clothing.  Not having enough copies of resumes.  Confusing a company with its competitor or not knowing anything about a company.  Lacking enthusiasm or interest in a company or job opportunities. Job Fair Mistakes (2)  Asking about salary (leave this for later)  Asking inappropriate questions, not asking questions, having a poor or unprofessional attitude.  Grabbing free stuff.  Lacking communication skills, including not making eye contact and having a weak handshake.  Not being willing to relocate. Things to Remember!     Recruiters are looking for you! Smile, maintain eye contact, firm handshake! No gum! No job offer that day? Don’t get discouraged! Do your follow-ups.  Attending a Career Fair for the first time can be a little overwhelming. However, if you prepare for the fair, you will get as much out of it as you put into it. Surrey Convention Centre 7475 135 St. Surrey (behind Costco) www.pics.bc.ca Thursday, July 24th, 2008 - 10am to 6pm 100+ Employers/Businesses! Now that you know . . . . . come & get it 4th Annual PICS Mega Job Fair