Ask Asa: Get The Most Out Of A Job Fair
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It's a jobless jungle out there. NY1 Employment reporter Asa Aarons is answering viewers questions as they try to navigate the terrain.
Dear Asa,
These job fairs are a joke. I have been to many over the last two years, and have not found employment. I see a lot of tables for sales jobs and military recruiters. I wonder what percentage of people has found viable employment.
Tall,
New York
Tall, I understand. I cover many of these job fairs and at first glance it looks like the same old companies and agencies with the same tired opportunities. At first glance!
To every job fair, there is a world of activity beneath the basic glad handing.
First, prepare. Have hard copy and flash drive versions of your resume ready to go. Also bring a cover letter, which will make you stand out from many other people there.
Most job fairs show an advance schedule or map. Pick the top three companies you really want to work for and zero in on them. That will keep you from wandering around aimlessly wasting time.
Talk to everyone. Not just recruiters. The persons in front or in back of you in the line, the guy at the coffee stand, all might have a lead about a job you really want.
Once you do make your way to an actual recruiter, remember that people have started to form an opinion about you within 30 seconds of the first contact. So make sure that impression is a good one with correct posture, confident handshake, solid eye contact, and a confident voice.
Don't be too specific or too general about the kind of job you want. Explain your goals and state you are willing to work your way into the right position.
After you have done this with the three companies you really like, then roam a little and drop your resume at other tables.
Job fair organizers often point to the so-called “hidden jobs” at their events. Basically your resume gets into the mix and pops up when companies are trying to fill future positions that aren't even posted yet.
You may want to think of the job fair as a dance. You don't fall in love and marry every single person you dance with. But sometimes, a spark or two ignites and leads to a promising future.
If you have an employment story, a job, a new interview technique, or something you want to share with those looking for work or those doing the hiring, contact Asa Aarons at askasa@ny1.com.