[jsfg_cinti] advice in preparation for Nov 17 JSFG Job Fair

As you prepare, or should be preparing for the Nov 17 JSFG Job Fair; here is
some advice from the Employment Guide: Making the Most of a Job Fair
www.employmentguide.com
Job fairs are a great way for you to explore potential employment
opportunities and learn more about companies who are actively hiring in your
neighborhood. Many people see it as something as serious as a first
interview, while others view it as an opportunity to gather information
about potential employers. Regardless of what reason you have for attending,
there are a few important things to keep in mind before, during, and after
the job fair to make it successful for you.

Before the Job Fair:

     Find out what businesses will be there. The more information you can
gather beforehand, the more successful the job fair is going to be for you.
Find out what businesses are going to be at the job fair, and spend some
time doing some research about them. What types of jobs do they have open?
What kind of people are they looking for? What kinds of skills do these
people need to have?

     Develop some questions you'd like to ask employers. Narrow down your
list of businesses to include those who have positions you are interested
in, or are businesses you think you might like to work for. Then list some
questions you would like to ask the company representative at the job fair.

     Proof read your resume - at least twice. If you don't already have one,
it is a good idea to put a resume together for a job fair. It gives
employers a blueprint of your skills and something tangible to remember you
by. Be sure to proofread your resume before the job fair to find any
spelling or grammatical mistakes. Even if you think there are no errors,
have someone else look it over too. Don't let errors overshadow your
qualifications for a job!

     Be sure your resume contains your updated contact information. You'll
want employers to be able to reach you if necessary. Double check that your
address, phone number, and e-mail address is current.

At the Job Fair:

     Dress the part. As with a job interview, first impressions at a job
fair are important. How you represent yourself sends an immediate message to
employers about how serious you are in your job search. It isn't always
necessary to wear a suit to a job fair - unless you are looking for a job
that would require you to dress professionally at work. However, you should
leave the jeans and t-shirts at home. "Business Casual" is usually the most
appropriate at a job fair - nice slacks and a collared shirt for men and
nice slacks or a skirt and a blouse for women are appropriate. Make sure
your clothes are clean and pressed. Avoid wearing excessive jewelry or
clothing that is too short or revealing.

     Take time to talk to employers. Don't just drop off a resume and move
to the next booth. Take time to get additional information and make an
impression. The point is not to see how many resumes you can give to
employers in the least amount of time - it is to establish some solid job
prospects. Also, try to avoid approaching employers when they are crowded by
a large group of job seekers. Approaching a crowded booth makes it difficult
for employers to answer your individual questions, and they are less likely
to remember you when they return to their offices.

     Use your research to appear confident and knowledgeable. If you have
done research before the job fair, you won't have to ask the question, "What
does your company do?" If you have to ask, you are wasting valuable time.
Instead, you could be asking questions about the position or department you
are interested in. It works to your advantage if you can tell employers how
your skills match what they are looking for. Employers want to hire people
who are genuinely interested in their company. Do your homework!

     Have a firm handshake and maintain eye contact. Let employers know how
serious you are. Greet the employer with a firm handshake, and maintain eye
contact throughout your conversation. Showing interest and good manners is
important, regardless of the type of job you are looking for. Every employer
appreciates someone who is dedicated, conscientious, and attentive.

After the Job Fair:

     Follow up with a thank you note. Experts agree that follow-up is an
important part of attending a job fair. If you picked up a business card, or
the name of the company's job fair representative, send a thank you note a
day or two after the job fair. This is not only polite, but will let the
representative know you paid attention, are serious about the job, and that
you are the right person for it.
- - - -

"Remarkable You... splash your way to success!"   Be remarkable!   -Bob


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