How to be successful at Job Fairs

© Mark Adornetto

A job fair is an excellent opportunity to have face-to-face interview and networking opportunities with members of companies that are hiring! Hiring managers often attend job fairs and this gives you an opportunity to present yourself and your resume to a decision-maker. Be prepared to make the most of this opportunity.

Prepare!

1. Prepare a current, clean, and scannable resume and follow good resume principles when you write it. Make sure it lists your skills and experience that best match the needs of the companies you are targeting. Also make sure it contains keywords appropriate for the position you are applying for since the resume will probably be scanned. It should be no more than two pages in length with no cover letter If you want to apply for more that one type of position, prepare a resume for each position and carry copies for each one. It is best to target your resume to your desired position.
   
   
2. Select 10 or 12 companies to target before the fair and plan your approach. Research them and understand their needs before the fair and plan a self-introduction that highlights how what you have will match their needs. VISIT THEIR WEBSITE! Visit these companies first then target others when you are finished.
   
   
3. Dress for an interview. While a suit and jacket may not be necessary, shorts and sandals are not a good idea, even if this is the dress code for the company you are approaching.
   
   
4. Prepare a 30 second self-introduction to use when meeting company representatives. This introduction should include some key accomplishments that relate to the needs of the company.
   
   

At The Fair!

1. Bring plenty of copies of your resume, check to see if copiers are available at the fair.
   
   
2. Keep positive and keep in mind that you are interviewing.
   
   
3. Be sure to smile and offer a firm handshake when meeting company representatives.
   
   
4. Gather information from the companies you preselected as well as others to review later. You can find a goldmine of information on companies at the fair in documents such as annual reports, brochures, newsletters, and other company information.
   
   
5. Also, take time to walk around and look at the other booths to see what companies have openings and what kinds of openings are most common. This gives you an idea of which companies are growing and what skills are in highest demand.
   
   
6. Ask for business cards for further contact.
   
   
7. Even if the job you are interested in is not listed, submit your resume anyway.
   
   
8. Visit companies you didn't preselect; you may find a great position
   
   
9. If you are interested and believe you qualify, tell the interviewer!
   
   
10. Network with other candidates. You can find valuable information from other candidates at the fair so take time to meet and exchange information.
    
    

After the Fair!

1. Sort through the company handouts, brochures, and business cards and plan your follow up.
   
   
2. After a few days, telephone (or email) the recruiters and/or hiring managers, remind them about your conversation, and ask if they have any other questions.
   
   
3. Follow up about once a week until you know whether or not they've made a decision.
   
   

Follow this advice and you can find job fair success

© Mark Adornetto, 2000
Mark Adornetto, MBA is a Career and Professional Coach who has worked with hundreds of professionals on career transition and career development. He may be contacted by email or through his web site.
mark@markadornetto.com
www.markadornetto.com