Looking For Employment? Consider A Job Fair

If you're trying to find employment or want to change to a different line of employment, consider going to a Job Fair. What better spot to actually find employers who are actively trying to find workers, and all you have to do is walk right up to them and introduce yourself. If you've never considered going to one, they're easy to find and at least once a month somewhere there will be one, especially if you reside in a large metropolitan area. I've found a good list of insider tips for any job prospect to follow, if he/she is ready to step up and get serious about finding real work. These are from the manager of a company who sponsors Job Fairs, and she's been to hundreds and seen what works and what doesn't.

First of all, take the fair seriously. Follow the same procedures you would if you were going for an interview, because that's what this is, so act and dress accordingly.

Bring your best resume. If you can't create a good one, you're behind your competition, so don't be afraid to get some help. Spelling and chronological order are important, there are tons of websites that can help you out, or pay somebody to do it for you. One other thing about the resume you bring to the event, make it on plain white paper with no pictures, you'll be making a lot of copies of it(copiers are usually provided) and plain old black and white copies are the clearest.

Prior to the fair, call the producer of the fair and get a list of companies that will be present. The list may not be complete but it will give you a start. If you find a company your interested in, do some research so you can have some intelligent questions of your own to ask during the interview. This step alone will help you stand out from your competition, don't just walk up and say, "So, what do you guys do?" Stupid. It's the same as saying, "Don't hire me."

During your interview, answer their questions politely and be concise, if they don't tell you, make sure to ask what characteristics they are looking for in a new employee, and(if you're interested), what you need to do to get a second interview at their office. Don't be afraid to show some enthusiasm, and let them know you're really interested in working for them. If you're feeling confident enough, ask the interviewer how you stack up against the other candidates.

If they don't set a date for a 2nd interview, don't be disappointed, ask for a card and be sure to thank the interviewer for the opportunity. If you really want to stand out, send him/her a thank-you card and let them know you're still interested and would like another interview.

While at the fair, don't hesitate to talk to the other people looking for work, they may have just left a job that would be perfect for you or give you information about positions that they may not qualify for but you do. These fairs offer other information besides just the interview, there are always publications about Career Centers and Associations with possible job openings. Eventually a situation will open and you'll be there waiting to take it, so don't give up!