How to make the most of a job fair

It's time to separate yourself from the pack. Find out how these tips can help you prepare and succeed in landing a job at a job fair.

There’s no doubt the Internet is an excellent resource when hunting for a job, but don’t limit yourself to searching websites and online job postings. You can try hitting the pavement and going door-to-door, but this requires a lot of time and energy, and the success rate is relatively low.

On the other hand, job fairs are full of companies looking for good candidates.

It’s a little bit like going door-to-door, but it’s a more focused approach: all the companies you hand your CV to have at least one job opening. Moreover, in a single day, you have the opportunity to submit your application to several companies, and by doing so face-to-face, you'll have already passed the initial interview stage.

This is the most productive method for seeking employment.

It shouldn’t be too difficult to find one: there are job fairs in all regions of all major cities, and they take place throughout the year. Sometimes job fairs specifically target a particular industry or sector while others target a specific audience, such as new workforce entrants or recent grads. Some large companies host their own job fairs, as do universities and colleges.

• Learn about the companies that will be participating and target those that interest you most, then educate yourself about them
• Customize your resume so it reads faster
• Print out multiple copies of your resume
• Prepare as you would for any interview, but be more concise. In fact, you will have several mini-interviews over the course of the day and you’ll only have a few minutes to make a good impression
• Clarify your career objectives, as you will certainly be asked about them
• Dress professionally, in the same manner you would for an interview

• Arrive early to avoid traffic and to apply for the best jobs while they're still available
• Find out where the specific companies you targeted are set up
• Be dynamic, professional, confident, and smile
• During your interview, let the interviewer ask their questions and reply in short and concise answers
• Do not ask too many questions. Instead, stick only to the basics (do not start to negotiate salary)
• Take business cards from individuals or companies you’ve interviewed with

Follow up with the people you met. Be patient and don’t harass or press anyone for information. You will be contacted if your application has been accepted.

Don’t stop at just one job fair. Instead, go to every expo that interest you. After all, looking for work is a full-time job!