How To Approach A Job Fair

By Author: Kellie Whitehead
Total Articles: 3
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Job or ‘career' fairs are a popular and useful way to get employers and potential employees in the same room at the same time! All well and good, but the larger fairs can be so vast and overwhelming, you might just need your own ‘Job Fair' strategy to make sure you and your CV receive the attention you deserve, from the employers you want to be seen by.

The Basics

Job Fairs can mean a lot of walking, standing, and waiting around. You are always advised to dress professionally and appropriately, but it could be tempting to get it wrong with the footwear. Comfortable does not have to mean, scruffy or inappropriate. Look after your feet, but make sure you are in line with a professional look from top to toe

Take a sneaky peek. Observe the employers stand and others who are in it for a few minutes before getting in line. Whilst waiting, you can make your own assumptions going forward as to what you think will be a good ‘in' based on what you have noticed. Pick up brochures and reading materials to read and ‘gen ‘up on the company whilst you wait. This is true especially ...
... when you are trying to capture international opportunities like Jobs in Dubai or London jobs. Try and see and hear as much as you can. Pick up on questions and responses between the employers and the candidates.

When you've done your homework and are sure you actually want to get in line for this particular organisation, try and formulate an innovative line of conversation. A unique ‘pitch' on yourself and why you want to work for the company may help you in being remembered later amongst the hundreds of other potential applicants the interviewers may have seen that day. Be sure to ask lots of questions. It's not just them interviewing you. The company needs to fit the bill also.

After your interview, don't forget to thank the employer warmly. Be sure to take their business card so that you can follow up in the future. Make sure to make that call or write that email within 3 days. Many senior executives travel and are very busy, so don't expect a response immediately.

Don't forget that first impressions count. It is important to treat meetings at job fairs as seriously as you would a formal interview.

You are encouraged to attend career fairs as they provide an excellent avenue for obtaining information about different career fields, specific company culture and work experience opportunities.

Remember - it is never too early to start researching and collecting information on your career options. You may not know exactly what you want to do once you graduate, but having a sense of which opportunities are available can be helpful when it comes to choosing modules and deciding on extra-curricular activities.

About the Author

Kellie Whitehead writes job related content for TeleportMyJob.Com specializing in helping professionals relocate their careers in international opportunities like Jobs in Dubai, London jobs, and Sydney jobs.