Maximizing your job fair experience

Including a job fair in your job search plan is a wise investment of your time for several reasons. First, it allows you to meet with potential employers at a convenient location. Second, you can expand your network through contact with over 70 employers, gathering information about the companies and industries. Third, the more employers you talk to, the better you become at communicating your desires and ultimately sharpening your interviewing skills. Bottom line, it is a one-stop shop for all your job hunting needs. Carl Weiscopf, FFSC director, emphasized that “the most effective job seekers are those who have been to numerous job fairs and understand the process.”

To prepare for this event, the following is a list of items designed to help you be successful:

1. Preparation

Visit one of the FFSC Career Centers located at Naval Base San Diego, Naval Base Coronado or Naval Base Point Loma and obtain a list of firms participating in the career fair. Determine the employers you want to approach. Have an ‘A’ list and a ‘B’ list. Use the internet and resources in the career center to research each firm before the job fair.

2. Dress

Remember that you will be making a first impression with many employers and you should always wear professional attire. If you are looking for a middle or upper management position, professional dress is a must.

3. Plan Your Strategy

Arrive early but resist the urge to get in line to speak to an employer immediately. Take time to check out the entire fair first!

4. Which companies are at the fair?

- Quickly organize ‘A’ and ‘B’ lists if you haven’t done so earlier.

- Get “warmed up” by talking to a few companies on your ‘B’ list.

- Collect company brochures and business cards from everyone you talk to so that you can follow up later.

5. Resumes

Bring plenty of resumes to hand out. Remember; a resume is an advertisement of your education, skills, experienc, and accomplishments.

6. 30 Second “Elevator” pitch

When attending the career fair, be ready to deliver a 30-second pitch emphasizing your key selling points. Make it interesting,, but to the point. Practice your pitch in advance so you can deliver it fluently and tailor it for specific situations.

7. Asking & Answering Questions

Be prepared for any kind of question. Be prepared to give examples to back up everything on your resume. To help you decide if a company is of interest to you, ask questions based on the research you did prior to the fair and include such things as training opportunities, advancement opportunities, etc.

8. Follow up after the Job Fair

Send a follow-up e-mail or letter to each firm that was of interest to you. Thank the employer for his/her time and re-emphasize your key selling points. Follow up your e-mail or letter with a phone call asking for a face-to-face meeting. Do not neglect this part of your job search; it is part of the networking process and offers the potential of landing interviews.

Even if you are a spouse looking for your next job or an active duty member who is separating or retiring, attend the FFSC Job Fair and get started on your new adventure.

Similar Posts:

• Getting A Recommendation From A Past Employer
• Using LunchMeet to Advance Your Career
• Top 5 Employment Trends for 2012
• Staying Motivated at a Dead-End Job
• Why The Workplace Office Is Becoming Arbitrary