How to Separate from the Job Fair Crowd

Michigan Works - Standing Out in a Crowd Preparation + Professionalism = Success

Job Fair- Defined…

An exhibition intended to inform people of available jobs or business opportunities.
Multiple interview sessions where the unprepared and unfocused candidates are stepped on and over by those who are targeted and prepared.

Goals of Job Fairs...

Employer prospective:
-Be provided with the highest number of prospects in the shortest possible amount of time.
Job Seeker prospective:
-A “freebie” opportunity to meet with multiple hiring employers.

Job Fair Statistics

25% of job fair attendees go to job fairs unprepared.
49% of those who prepared in advance receive interviews at a job fair.
65% of those attendees receive job offers.
Statistics reported by: Jobweb and University of North Dakota

Preparation for Job Fair
Finalize resumes.
Research organizations of interest.
Prepare questions for the employer.
Review interviewing techniques.
Prepare interviewing clothing.

Performing a One-Minute Miracle
"Elevator Speech"
A personal presentation just long enough to say on an elevator ride.
"Tell me about yourself" answer.
Ask an engaging/ open-ended question.

Five things to take with you…
Copies of Your Resume.
A smile, a strong handshake, and a positive attitude.
A one-minute “sales pitch.”
Information on the companies.
Energy!

Five things not to do…
Cruise the booths with friends.
Carry your backpack, large purse, or other bulky items.
Come dressed for gym class.
“Wing it” with employers.
Show up in the last half hour.

Five things to take home...
Business Cards.
Notes about contacts made.
Information about organizations you have contacted.
A better sense of your career options.
Self-confidence in interacting with employers.

Questions for Employers…

What types of career opportunities does your organization offer?
I am interested in _______, are you in need of someone in this area?
What are the main skills or characteristics that you look for in an employee?
Do you have any literature describing your company?

The Unsuccessful Job Fair Attendee…

Is unprepared and lacks focus.
Asks for “any” kind of work or sells themselves as a generalist.
Fails to give examples of relevant skills.
Dresses casually.
Targets only one or two companies.

The Successful Job Fair Attendee…

Is prepared, direct, and focused on clear goals.
Acts like they are in a real interview.
Has a clear job/career objective and summary of skills/qualifications.
Dresses professionally.
Asks key questions to employers regarding the company, jobs available, and skills required. Comes away with several contacts and possibilities.

From MICHIGAN WORKS

Source: http://www.myfoxdetroit.com/dpp/job_shop/seperate-from-the-job-fair-crowd