Job seekers are encouraged to attend job fairs, but not for the reason everyone thinks. Those who actively participate in these events have opportunities to exercise their professional abilities.
Forget the idea of being offered a job on the spot. Instead, attend job fairs for the purposes of building networks and meeting company representatives. Also, use this time to practice, practice, practice. Going to job fairs can increase a person’s interview skills and polish that elevator speech.
A Job Fair is like a Networking Event
Just because it is called a job fair does not mean the event is all about finding a job. A job fair is a forum for networking too. Meet hiring representatives and mingle with other job seekers.
Don’t feel discouraged if a job fair doesn’t produce strong leads. A number of employers set up booths but are not actively recruiting. Many of them are just promoting their brands.
Does this alleviate some pressure? Enjoy a job fair for what it is – a networking opportunity. Make the most of the event by talking with a lot of people and acting professional. This is a place to explore the job market, meet people, and practise interview techniques.
Prepare for a Job Fair like it’s a Job Interview
In addition to using the job fair as a forum for networking, treat it like a job interview. Take some time to explore the material that is used to promote these events. Find out what companies are going to be present and do some research on them.
While employers rarely hire on the spot, it can pique a recruiter’s interest to know a job seeker has the technical skills and qualities that complement his or her company’s culture. Also, knowing what companies will be represented and the types of positions they offer makes it possible to tailor a résumé for a particular audience.
Don’t Attend a Job Fair without an Elevator Speech
Job seekers are in the marketing business; they should package their skills and accomplishments in a way others can easily understand. An elevator speech encompasses this concept to a tee. It is a personal tool professionals use to introduce themselves and describe what they do.
In the business world, elevator speeches never go out of style. A person ought to know his or her elevator speech so well that it rolls off the tongue effortlessly. Since practise makes perfect, a job fair is the perfect place to use and perfect an elevator speech.
All this is to say, a job fair offers more than meets the eye. Job fairs are networking events and training platforms. Interacting with fellow job seekers and recruiters allows a person to make the most of these opportunities. Mix, mingle, and possibly engage with a future employer.
Share this Post