Most employers accept resumes by email or electronic submission. You work hard to perfect your résumé, and sending it into the void can feel exciting at first-"Yay, I'm putting myself out there!"-but disappointment can quickly follow if you hear nothing back. "It's all so impersonal," you lament.
Wouldn't you rather hand your résumé to a real person? Career Fairs provide students and job seekers the opportunity to do that and more. You get to explore job opportunities with a variety of companies at a single location. You get to dress professionally, shake hands with hiring professionals, and practise your interviewing and networking skills. Remember, more jobs are filled by networking than any other means.
Companies and organizations also benefit from Career Fairs. Employers get a chance to see who's keen on seeking employment. Who arrives first at the fair? Which candidates have obviously done their research on your company and come prepared with intelligent questions? Who has a confident handshake or an engaging smile?
Employers can attract potential candidates by creating an exciting display to showcase the company and by staffing the booth with knowledgeable company representatives. Job candidates can prepare by creating a brief verbal introduction that summarizes career goals, skills, and experience. Practise it several times so your delivery is smooth and relaxed.
Job seekers have some work to do after the Career Fair. You should contact the employers for whom you are most interested in working. Send a thank-you email within two days, attach your résumé, and mention something you discussed to help him or her remember you. If the employer gave you specific next steps, such as applying online or contacting someone else at the company, make sure you follow through. If you don't hear anything, you can follow up again a few weeks later.
Employers also have follow-up tasks after the Career Fair. It's a good idea to reply to inquiries personally and in a timely manner. This will help to reinforce the company's positive image. Even if you don't have an opportunity now for a particular candidate, you might have one later. Establishing rapport is a great way to keep your company's name at the top of the candidate's dream-job list.
Visitor Comments
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Neil - 2014-02-25
Looking for grader work
Tammy - 2014-02-13
I too, am looking forward to the job fair. I am looking for work as an MOA, and really hope I have the chance to meet some more people in the health care field to increase my networking contacts.
Career Link - 2014-02-13
Dave, You’re in luck, the Job Fair is on Tuesday, March 11.
Dave - 2014-02-11
Way to go!! Great idea, however, how about next time sending out emails? Calling those who are actively seeking work...We don't all live on Facebook!! It is now after 2pm, Tues Feb 11, and I am just finding out about this..... In fact, I was in there Friday to arrange an appt, for Wednesday. Nobody said a thing!! Put me on record as calling this a CareerlinkBC 'FAIL'. Let's do it again tho'...I hope it was a success, anyhow... Dave
Adam - 2014-02-05
I need a job working at a high end food establishment.