Career Fairs 101

Career fairs are what you make of it and are a viable opportunity in your job search if you are actually prepared.  Job fairs are sponsored by a variety of organizations.  Some can be part of a national conference of a professional organization; others are solely for a specific company; while many are held by local communities and even government officials.  Thus, the key here is preparing accordingly for the event.   Of course, that means you need to have your professional résumé ready to go.

As with anything and everything in your job search, you must do your research.  Before you plan on attending, ask yourself, does this fair offer the company, field, industry or type of positions that you are targeting? If the answer is yes, get the list of companies that are confirmed to attend and start developing your game plan.

In today’s society, the majority of companies requires you to apply online; so go to the companies’ career portal that interest you on the list and apply for the positions you qualify for.  For some of the fairs that are offered through professional organizations, they may  have a separate portal for companies to post positions that they are actively recruiting for at the event.  Be sure to apply via that portal, that lets the company know you plan on attending the fair.  If you’re background is a match and they are conducting on-site interviews, they may contact you to schedule one.  If you’re not called for an on-site interview, do not let that deter you.  Visit the company’s booth early, as many of them will hold some slots for candidates they meet during the day.

Next, create a list of the positions that you’ve applied to, that you can have on-hand the day of the event and for your conversation with the company representative.  Most importantly, do some research on the company while you’re on their website.

Now, that you’ve investigated the company and their openings, here are few reminders for the day of the fair:

1.       Dress professionally.  Consider this your first interview.  Suits would be the best option for both men and women.  Other options are dresses for women, and for men, dress shirt, blazer and tie.  Women, no open toe shoes.  And speaking of shoes, make sure they are comfortable as you will be walking and standing for most of the time.  Do NOT wear jeans, t-shirts, hats, sneakers or any casual attire.

2.       Bring multiple copies of your résumé.  Put them in your portfolio.  Make sure your portfolio has blank paper and a pen to take any notes for follow-up.  Keep in mind that some companies' policy prevents them from taking a paper resume but don’t let that deter you.  And remember to bring your list of positions that you’ve already applied for with you.

3.       Develop a 30-second elevator speech.  This should highlight who you are as a professional and what you have to offer the company.  In essence, what are you bringing to the table, if hired?  Be ready to use this, as you network at the fair.

4.       Take personal business cards.  This is great for networking with the recruiters and other attendees.

You’re almost there.  Just a few more steps.  The day of the fair, usually, you’ll receive a registration packet upon arrival.  In your packet, the final company list is provided with their location in the event hall.  Take a few moments to locate the companies you’ve targeted.  Highlight them on the list by circling, placing an asterisk or whatever works best for you to easily see it.  And prioritize which ones you want to visit first.  Then, when you’ve visited their booth, you can cross them off, ensuring that you speak with everyone you definitely want to reach during the event.  And if there is time left, you can start going to other company booths to see if they just have something you are looking for.  Remember to ask the rep for a business card to thank them for their time and follow-up with them. 

In summary, implementing these strategies and techniques will change your conversation with the recruiter.  By pre-applying to positions, you can indicate what positions you applied for versus hearing “go to the website and apply”.  Hopefully, the representative will be able to help you break through the ‘clutter’ of other applicants.  They make note that you applied for a position(s), attended the event and visited the booth.  It shows your interest in the company and preparedness for the fair.  If the company didn't have anything related to your background, you should also share that you visited their site, more about your background and before you leave, ask for a business card to follow-up when something that aligns with your interests becomes available.  In addition, ask if you can connect with them on LinkedIn.  If you receive a business card, definitely follow-up but do NOT stalk them.  This stalking tactic will usually work against you in your pursuit to join that organization.

One final tidbit to remember, the job fair is an opportunity to network and put faces to names.  Unfortunately, there will be more to the hiring process after the event in order to secure the position.

Be strategic.  Arrive early.  Have a game plan.

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New Leaf Career Solutions is a career consulting boutique that redefines individuals and small businesses professional brands.  New Leaf partners with each client to provide quality résumés, cover letters, bios, brochures and much more.  Visit newleafcareersolutions.com to schedule an appointment.  Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest for tips.  Call today to turn over a New Leaf !!