In this guide, I will talk to you about 5 ways that you can prepare for a job fair.
These types of hiring events provide you with good opportunities to network with hiring managers who are looking to fill positions at their companies soon.
Keep reading to learn more about the first thing you can do to get ready for a job fair.
1. Why It's Important To Attend Job Fairs
One of the best reasons to attend a hiring event is so you can network with potential employers. By attending these events, you'll be able to learn about companies and cultures that might suit what you're looking for in your next career. Many organizations use recruiting events as an opportunity to find new talent, so it's well worth making your way down and meeting some of them!
2. What Items Should Your Bring To A Job Fair?
In addition to bringing a good attitude, you want to pack extra copies of your resume, your business cards, pens, a notepad, and even a book about the industry you are interested in working in.
An observant hiring manager may take notice of your book and see that you are knowledgeable about your industry. The book can even be used to start small talk.
You never know who might be watching, so it's best to come prepared. It's also a good idea to have a list of questions to ask the potential employer.
You will also want to arrive in plenty of time before the event starts so you can take care of any last-minute details such as filling out an exhibitor or attendee registration form, and setting up your booth if that is what you're looking for. You'll also need enough cash on hand; many hiring events require a fee in order to enter through this amount varies depending on who's hosting it.
3. What Should You Do Before Attending A Job Fair?
Before the day of the job fair, you should research the companies that will be attending the fair. You can find this information on their website or by calling them and asking. This way, when you get to the event you'll have an idea of what each company is about (and how they compare with other employers), which may help you make a decision as to where to apply for work.
Take the time to do some research on potential employers so that you can make a memorable impression during the event. This will help you to stand out in the hiring manager's mind. This will also set you apart from other attendees.
4. How To Prepare For The Job Fair
To prepare you'll want to do things like:
- Research the companies that will be at the job fair
- Ensure that you have all the supplies and documents you need. This will include copies of your resume, pens, a notepad, etc.
- Look up the address to the job fair in advance so that you can arrive on time.
- Come up with a list of questions that you have about each company. This can be questions about the companies work environment, industry news, what the hiring manager's expectations of new hires are. Starting the conversation is the hardest part. Once you begin, it will be easy to maintain a back and forth discussion.
5. Tips On Making More Memorable Connections At Job Fairs
To make a memorable impression at a job fair, put yourself in the shoes of a hiring manager. What would impress you?
First of all, you should be well dressed and groomed. Dress like you are interviewing for the job today. More than likely you are interviewing. A good showing at the job fair can either result in getting hired on the spot or advancing to the next stage of the hiring process.
Another way to impress hiring managers is to ask intelligent and thoughtful questions. You want to do more than just ask "yes" or "no" questions. Instead ask open-ended questions like:
What is the biggest problem your department is having right now?
Questions like this get the hiring manager talking. Use this information to learn more about the company to ensure it is a good fit with your own preferences in a job.
Conclusion
Job fairs offer a great way to network, learn about potential employers and find employment.
In order to make the most of your time at one, you'll want to do some research in advance so that you can ask intelligent questions and impress hiring managers with your knowledge of their company or industry.
You should also dress professionally for the event -- as if it were interviewing for the position at the job fair.
Bring business cards, resumes, note pads, and even a book related to your industry as a conversation starter. Personal touches like that could be just what helps set you apart from other attendees vying for the same positions at these companies.
The next step you ask? Go out there, shine, and get that job that you deserve!