While going to job fairs may not land you that perfect position on the spot, they can prove to be a useful tool in your search.
“You need to look at this as a networking opportunity,” said Kathy Boas, a principal with Defrain Mayer, a human resources and benefits consulting firm. “You never know what’s available and out there.”
Job seekers should approach these fairs with a serious attitude, said Mary Jean Billingsley, program director of Career Services as Johnson County Community Colleges.
“It’s an opportunity to meet face to face with a (potential) employer, and you should treat it like a job interview,” Billingsley said. “You are making an impression and a connection with an employer in an informal setting. Even though the position available may not be a match, it’s a connection and these folks trade information and will refer people on.”
Here are tips to make the most of your visit to a job fair from Boas:
– Do your research: Find out what type of fair it will be, which employers will be there and whether interviewing will take place.
– Pre-register.
– Dress appropriately.
– Bring copies of your resume.
– Wear your name tag on the right side: “They are more likely to see it when you shake hands,” Boas said.
– Network: “Don’t spend all your time at one place.”
– Follow up: Do not wait for the employers to call you. Thank them and reference where you met them.
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