Daniel J.
looking for work in digital marketing, including social media, community management, with growing passion for analytics
What advice would you give to someone who will be attending their very first job fair?
Many unemployed workers are finding themselves in the job market for the first time in many years. Some have never been in the job market before. What advice would you give to such a job seeker? I'm looking for help in setting expectations, etc. This is also going to be for a blog post at http://getthatjobonline.com and will immediately go out to some local folks who will attend a job fair in the coming weeks. Thanks for your help!
Answers (38)
Mary J.
Investor Relations: Making the story clear, credible and compelling.
Best Answers in: Budgeting (1)
1. Go with a positive attitude, and try to network not only with the companies who are there, but also with other attendees. Try to be helpful, and look for people who could become good allies. People should expect to see a huge turnout. If they walk in expecting it, and with a game plan to benefit, they will do better.
2. Some job fairs make a list of the companies who will be present available ahead of time. If there is a list available, spend time learning about the firms. Check what positions they list as open, where they are located, what they do. Try to understand what business challenges they are facing. If you can help them address a current problem, you should speak with them even if they aren't recruiting for a job title you would be looking to fill. The best formula for landing a job is usually "Do you have this business problem? Let me tell you about how I can help solve that."
Peter P.
Independent Marketing and Advertising Professional
Best Answers in: Advertising (9), Internet Marketing (2), Compensation and Benefits (1), Business Development (1), Writing and Editing (1)
Always be as fair as possible.
Bob M.
Career Search Instructor and Workshop Designer│Mentor│Program Coordinator | Career Search Blogger | LinkedIn Trainer
Best Answers in: Job Search (77), Career Management (18), Staffing and Recruiting (14), Using LinkedIn (11), Professional Networking (7), Resume Writing (6), Communication and Public Speaking (6), Mentoring (3), Work-life Balance (3), Organizational Development (3), Education and Schools (2), Event Marketing and Promotions (1), Government Services (1), Compensation and Benefits (1), Advertising (1), Direct Marketing (1), Business Development (1), Change Management (1), Blogging (1), E-Commerce (1)
Daniel,
I see two options. One, don't go unless you know there are companies or jobs available and there's a chance you'll make meaningful contact. Two, go if you want exposure to the event and get outside your comfort zone and polish your networking skills.
Talking to the first reason: you can often contact the event coordinators and see if the companies you desire to introduce yourself to will be there. In some cases, the event coordinators can give you a sense if the occupations you seek will be available. In this case, it's advisable to bring plenty of resumes and business cards. Always dress to the nines. And, be prepared to deliver your personal commercial (many questions have been asked by the LI community regarding the commercial). Show your enthusiasm for the company/ies you'd like to meet with. Try not to deliver a hard sell; rather engage in discussion with a give and take attitude. As mentioned in the previous answer, be positive.
Reason two: many people, myself included, get frustrated when they go to a job fair and leave without a lead or direct contact with one of the company reps. For an introvert like myself, it feels more like rejection than a victory. However, if you know there is a slim chance you'll meet with someone who represents your industry or occupation, you can see it as a way to break out of your comfort zone and take solace in that. And if you happen to get a lead from this, your victory is that much greater.
The statistics on job fairs are low in terms of getting jobs, but you can build relationships by networking in a purposeful way. Present yourself as a viable candidate with all the answers to the tough questions. If you go to the job fair NOT expecting to leave with a job, you won't be disappointed. If you leave the job fair with an invitation to an interview, you will be a member of that small percentage who succeed.
Bottom line: go to the job fair with networking in mind. This would be a good start. Daniel, I suggest you read Smart Networking by Liz Lynch.
Bob
Erica F.
Social Media Optimizer, Publisher at ALC Publishing, President of Yuricon
Best Answers in: Blogging (48), Using LinkedIn (37), Internet Marketing (32), Business Development (20), Web Development (8), Small Business (7), Writing and Editing (6), Advertising (5), Viral Marketing (5), Search Marketing (5), Change Management (5), Professional Networking (5), Staffing and Recruiting (4), Branding (4), Career Management (4), Job Search (3), Mobile Marketing (3), Public Relations (3), Customer Relationship Management (3), Positioning (3), Communication and Public Speaking (3), Compensation and Benefits (2), Work-life Balance (2), Direct Marketing (2), Organizational Development (2), Starting Up (2), Computers and Software (2), Customer Service (1), Facilities Management (1), Purchasing (1), Freelancing and Contracting (1), Mentoring (1), Event Marketing and Promotions (1), Government Contracts (1), Personnel Policies (1), Internationalization and Localization (1), Lead Generation (1), Sales Techniques (1), Business Analytics (1), Labor Relations (1), Planning (1), Derivatives Markets (1), Product Design (1), Professional Books and Resources (1), Professional Organizations (1), Ethics (1), Incorporation (1), E-Commerce (1), Enterprise Software (1), Computer Networking (1), Telecommunications (1)
Keep your expectations reasonable. Companies may be there, but they are just as likely to be "represented" by placement agencies and HR firms.
Use the opportunity to get feedback on your resume, your interviewing skills and a chance to network. And give yourself a chance to understand what you do and don't want in a position.
Cheers,
Erica Friedman
Yurikon LLC
Social Media Without Delusion
http://socialoptimized.blogspot.com
http://www.visualcv.com/elfriedman
Be confident. Dress for Success
1) Check out who will be there ahead of time so that you can create a plan to meet certain company reps important to you;
2) Bring plenty of business cards and several resumes;
3) Dress professionally;
4) Smile and have fun. Treat the experience like any other networking experience -- an opportunity to meet new people and share ideas.
Ann L.
HR/Payroll/Social Media/Risk Manager at Harper Oil Products, Inc. and at Harper Properties, Inc.dba HOP Shops
1 - Don't bring children with you or anyone else, unless they are going to go to potential employers separately from you. 2 - Dress professionally (best foot forward - this is important right). 3 - Fresh Breath because you get a little close to hear each other. 4 - Take lots of well done resumes. 5 - Eye Contact, Smile, Shake hands and introduce yourself. 6 - Go to Companies you would like to work for and get contact information from them and then network with others because they may know of something perfect for you. 7 - Use your website resources to study up on companies you know will be there and be ready to make relevant conversation, no matter how brief it may have to be.
Links:
Clarification added October 14, 2009:
Do your research on the business - see web link below. It has latest business profiles, news, financials, etc.
Dear Daniel,
Preparation is the key and I am glad you are already taking your preparation seriously. Here are a few of my suggestions.
• Be positive - you can see from the other answers just how important this can be. Did you notice from the responses that this is both internal and external? Internally it will keep you going in the face of sore feet and long lines. Externally it may keep you in the mind of the people you meet. So be positive and show it. Smile and give positive comments.
• Shoes - many floors are pored concrete so wear soft-soled shoes. However, do not go to tennis shoes.
• Goals - Set goals for what you want to communicate about yourself. Have the keywords ready to go.
• Network - There is a lot of experience looking for jobs standing next to you. Help them and let them help you. Ask about their job fair experiences and tips.
• Lead - While your networking you may want to suggest that, a few of you get together at lunch to discuss the job market. This will set you up as a leader in their minds and may set you up as an expert.
• Debrief - after the event go over what you accomplished. What would you change for next time?
Thank you for the question.
Jonathan
Erin S.
Certified Leadership Coach, Strengths Trainer, Passionate Speaker; President, Sagestone Partners
Be able to clearly articulate your unique value....not what you have done (not a work history); rather, the VALUE and BENEFITS you have brought to other organizations, people and the community. Be confident with your summary - it's an important, attention-getting 30 seconds!!
Dress professionally and speak with enthusiasm and energy (without sounding desperate.)
Do homework before the job fair. Find out who will be there, if possible. Research the companies, know their value to the marketplace and start thinking about how you can add to that value.
Have your resume ready to go, along with a great story of what you've been doing with your "transition time." (Hopefully, you have used this time to learn, grow and contribute your skills to those who can benefit.)
Lastly, BELIEVE in the unique value that you have!!! There's only ONE you, and you're the best one there is!!!
Peter L.
Director, Marketing & Membership Development at Employers Resource Association
Best Answers in: Advertising (1), Internet Marketing (1), Branding (1)
As with all opportunities and events, one must first be strategic. You need to ask yourself which job fair potential employer/exhibitor holds the highest potential of getting you to the next step? There is almost always a list of the employers/exhibitors available before the event. Study the list and develop your first tier targets and second tier targets.
For the first tier targets, try to do some research such as going to LinkedIn and reviewing who among your LinkedIn connections are already (or were) employed there. Look at a few profiles and review the LinkedIn Groups to which they belong. Develop a few conversation starters that will make you stand out from the other hundreds of people the representatives of the employers/exhibitors will see that day.
There is usually a map or listing of the booth numbers available prior to the job fair. Study the map and get familiar with its layout. Plan your first stops which should be the companies on your first tier target list.
Dress for success. Job fairs are not business casual events.
Have plenty of resumes handy and, in this case, you might wish to print your resume in a different color than white paper. The employer/exhibitors will be doing nothing but collecting dozens of resume and you need yours to stand out at the end of the day.
Also, come prepared with extra pens. Some employers/exhibitors might want you to fill out an information card. It's not the time to be asking to borrow a pen.
Make it a point to visit your first tier targets first. Hopefully your pre-work will have generated some nuggets of information that you will be able to share with the representative and allow you to leave a positive impression about yourself. If your gut tells you that you seem to be making a connection, then ask the representative right then and there to schedule a follow-up meeting post the job fair event.
Visit your second tier second. It's usually a judgement call to see if it's worth the effort to pursue a job with these employers. Use these as opportunities for some information gathering. Perhaps some brief discussions with the representatives will lead you to some new networking opportunities.
If time allows, take a quick tour of the remaining exhibitors to determine if there are any additional opportunities that you might not have considered.
Finally, take a look around and see which employer/exhibitors your peers are visiting. You may not have considered some of these employer/exhibitors as first or second tier targerts in your pre-work, but they seem to be relevant to your peers. Find out why, because they might know something about those companies that you don't.
Good luck!!!
Be prepared and ready to sell yourself. I always advice going through all possible interview/scenario questions and answer them for yourself. This helps you to better know yourself and to be ready to present yourself in the most positive light in any situation. You never know where you might be when an opportunity will present itself.
Jenn Prine
Daniel L.
►PR Veteran, Social Media Guide, Co-founder of Cincinnati Social Media Blogger Speaker Content Marketer
Best Answers in: Public Relations (1)
Don't be desperate. OK, don't appear desperate. You may find a job at a job fair, but more likely you will make connections, get advice, and learn abut what specific employers and industries are looking for. Essentially it's more a networking event than an job interview.
And yes, that's a generalization.
Darlene Z.
ResumeEdge.com, ResumeEdge.ca, JobInterviewEdge.com Managing Editor at Nelnet Career Services
Best Answers in: Job Search (4), Resume Writing (4), Staffing and Recruiting (2)
In this job market, there are no expectations. A job fair is but another way to get your name out to hiring managers and recruiters, and to determine what skill sets they're looking for.
A candidate should make certain to have a polished, professional, up-to-date resume that focuses on results. It's not enough to simply list daily duties, one must prove to a hiring manager or a recruiter that quantified accomplishments were achieved.
Dress appropriately.
No matter how anxious or determined a candidate is about getting a position, that individual should not hound or corner a hiring manager or recruiter. They want to be persuaded; they do not want to be stalked.
Before the event, practice possible interview questions with a trusted friend or a family member. Videotape yourself to see how you come off. You may think you're being very witty. Instead, you're coming off as shrill.
Never let the hiring authority see your desperation. Show confidence and poise. It goes a long way.
No matter how friendly a hiring manager or recruiter appears, they are not your friend. Act and speak professionally and appropriately.
Darlene Zambruski
ResumeEdge.com, ResumeEdge.ca Managing Editor
Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW)
Links:
Doug F.
Technical Writer (contract) at Cree
Best Answers in: Job Search (2), Occupational Training (2), Resume Writing (1), Staffing and Recruiting (1), Organizational Development (1), Planning (1), Communication and Public Speaking (1), Small Business (1), E-Commerce (1)
Order some free business cards online -- do not overdo the art and be certain your name, your occupation, and your contact information are easily read.
Rent a copy of Hello, Dolly! starring Barbra Steisand as Dolly Levi; watch the first 10 minutes several times and pay particular attention to how Dolly treats everyone she meets as a potential employer or source of work.
Paul M.
Career~Outplacement~Personal Branding Consultant. Inspiring Creativity, Increasing Visibility & Generating Career Smiles
Before the event – preparation is essential and you need to plan your attack and identify what you want to achieve. Otherwise you could spend your time aimlessly wandering around or stuck in the coffee tent. Areas to consider include
- Find out which companies are attending – is there any way you connect before the event – Are the employers attending the event users of Linkedin.
- Have a 30 second sales pitch. You have to stand out from the crowd.
- Have some questions prepared to ask potential employers – just in case you speak to DM
- Have a wow CV & business card
On the day – it goes without say that you push yourself out of your comfort zone and dress for success. As someone mentioned earlier a smiling face is always welcome. Other things to consider include
- Get there early – From experience the first hour or so can be slow and you might get more airtime with the employer. With this in mind try to target ideal companies first.
- Make yourself visible - Handing CVs and slipping back into the masses is of no real benefit. Engage the employer within a short window. Remember these are busy places so you will only have a short window so deliver your sales pitch you have prepared.
- Collect Business Cards – if available as this will support follow up.
- Talk to everyone – this includes other people attending the event – you never know!!
After the event – follow-up.
Hope this helps
P
Links:
Rick S.
Outsourced CFO/Controller to Small Business Owners - providing part-time hours with full-time skills.
Many good answers have been given. One thing I would stress is that with the preparation of a 30 second commercial and knowing who will be there, is to be prepared to ask one or two pointed questions to each of your target companies - the best one that is easy to remember, and use is - What one issue is most likely to keep your leadership up at night? If you are asking an HR person, their answer may differ from an operations person, but it will show your concern for their problems, indicate to you areas that you may be able to utilize later, and show them, you are not just out there wanting a job. And since as people said, you have short amount of time, make it count with one or two questions for them. Remember - making them feel good reflects positively back to you.
SMILE =)
Margo R.
Award Winning Social Media Strategist Ready To Infuse Vital Energy Into Your Brand 513-549-3025
Don't give up, no matter what...it may look bleak, that doesn't mean it is bleak. This market is tough for young and old a like. Network with people you know, they'll lead you to people who may be in a position to hire you.
G-d speed.
Like most others stated preparation is key! Know who will be there and who you definitely want to meet with. Keep in mind, however, that this is a GREAT OPPORTUNITY to NETWORK with others, whether it be HR/recruiters from other firms or fellow career searchers. Opening dialogue and creating new contacts may not turn up any immediate results but could prove useful in the coming weeks, depending upon target companies, etc.
In networking, as in life, everyone is worth knowing!
Although you should go with copies of your resume, focus on getting the online job locations for the companies. After the fair do an immediate search of jobs available and apply. Recruiter/HR people come away with stacks of resumes from fairs. They may not review these fully for a week or more.
Go in with a plan! Research who is going to be participating and come prepared to speak with those individuals. You only get a few minutes if that with a company, so be prepared as if it were an interview. Have plenty of resumes and map out exactly where you want to go. This will allow you to make the best use of your time. Hope this helps.
Susan L.
Social Media Marketing Pro Teaching Sales Teams & Businesses How To Open More Doors and Close More Sales
Be the first to smile, provide a handshake and be positive. Research the list of attending companies if possible. Have a target list, a plan and know what YOU want to do in your career. Believe in yourself. Arrive early. Dress professionally. Make eye contact. Have plenty of resumes and business cards. Send hand written thank you notes to company representatives you talk with. Don't smoke outside. Most of these items may seem simple but make a huge difference as most people don't do them. Skillsets are not the only qualities companies look for.
All the best!
Richard K.
Helping MBA's and other execs reach their career potential - Executive Career Coach/Consultant, CMC, CPC, BCC, LION5600
Best Answers in: Job Search (16), Staffing and Recruiting (3), Career Management (3), Resume Writing (2), Mentoring (1), Occupational Training (1), Change Management (1), Professional Books and Resources (1), Using LinkedIn (1)
The answer I like best is Angie's --"smile".
My best advice: DON'T GO. Stay home and do something productive. You can't possibly believe that this is a useful exercise.
Links:
Kevin D.
Marketing Director, Empower MediaMarketing; Consumer Experiences, Powerhouse Factories; Founder, Cincinnati Social Media
So many people attend these things. It's a cattle call. I would use it as a chance to generate leads for follow up later. If you find the dream company/opening at the fair, engage them and make a connection. But otherwise I think you blend and some of these companies are doing it to stay in the hiring mix, but don't even have jobs.
Bottom line? One form of job lead generation. No one walks out of there with an offer in hand. From what I know about these events.
Angela M.
Specializes in the placement of Systems Professionals. Contract & Direct Placement.
Best Answers in: Staffing and Recruiting (1)
1. Dress for success. (It may sound cliche, but it is very true).
2. If possible, find out what companies will be attending, and put together a top 10 list (companies you are most interested in). Visit their companies first, while you are freshest).
3. Take along several copies of your resume and personal business card. Don't just drop resumes on tables. Engage in conversations and network. This is what will get you "the job"...not paper.
4. Be confident and smile!
5. It is important to network with other job seekers as well. They may have had a conversation with a company that is looking for "you"! Plus this gives you a chance to pay it forward.
6. Go into a job fair like it is a job interview. I have tips on my Website with regards to interviewing. Feel free to take a look.
Links:
Vickie E.
Fortunate to write for Fortune
Best Answers in: Job Search (4), Education and Schools (1), Mentoring (1), Writing and Editing (1), Organizational Development (1), Planning (1), Communication and Public Speaking (1), Blogging (1)
Daniel,
I'd echo much of the great advice already given - especially about practicing your "elevator pitch" and answers to a few key questions. And I'd also suggest:
-Look professional, but also wear something memorable. For a man, this could be a dress hat or a tie that reveals his passions or interests or even a wild pair of socks. For a woman, consider an heirloom pin, a hand-painted scarf or a bright blouse that won't blend in.
-If you can come up with a clever way to introduce yourself, do it. Humor can work, or a twist on your name or career choice. (Sometimes I introduce myself as: " 'm Vickie Elmer - Elmer like the glue so it will stick in your mind.")
-If the fair is a big one, and you're an introvert or don't like crowds, set a reasonable target on employers you will talk to - four or five. Then once you hit that, take a break, relax and regroup and go back for a second batch.
-Try to go when there are fewer people at the job fair - this could be right after lunch or another time.
-If there are long lines to see one recruiter, you could distinguish yourself by bringing that person a cup of coffee or a piece of fruit and bottled water. If you can mention that you always try for the "care and feeding of those you work with," you could move to the top of the line.
And follow up after the fair with the key people you really liked - or the employers that seem the most promising. A hand written note will stand out as much as your zoo animal scarf did!
Christy D.
Sourcing Manager at Perficient, Inc. | christy.divenere@perficient.com| 4500+
Hi Daniel,
I would say to dress porfessionally and do your homework! Know who is going to be at the career fair and what their business does. Understanding your potenical employer's business needs and goals will make your resume stand out. Take time to speak with each recruiter of the firms you are interested in. Tell them why you are interested in their firm and how you can add value!
1. Be clear on what you have to offer a company and what you want from your career.
2. Find out what companies will be there and do some homework. Research them to know what they do, what career choices they offer, and determine if what they offer is in line with your career goals.
3. Prepare your resume and personal appearance. If you are pursuing more than one career choice, make sure you have more than one resume. Each should reflect your demonstrated strengths and experience(s) in that area. Make sure your presentation of you says, "I am professional, positive and prepared." Your clothes should not be sloppy, wrinked, or dirty. Dress for an interview, not the after party!
4. Show up and demonstrate a positive/can do attitude. Companies are not looking for negative people. Even if you have been searching for a job for 6+ months with no positive results, it's important to show recruiters that you are still optimistic and determined to land the right opportunity.
5. Follow-up afterwards with those recruiters in which you think a good "connection" was made, but don't stalk him/her.
Best of luck to you!
Tim S.
Senior Corporate Technical Recruiter at World Fuel Services - (Oracle EBS/Fusion, OBIEE, Java, ETRM)
TREAT IT LIKE THE INTERVIEW!
Dress well, prepare yourself, act confident and followup with the individuals that you meet.
FOLLOWUP is what can set you apart from the individuals who just give out their resumes.
