With the summer fast approaching and exams and coursework finally submitted, finding a job for the summer break – either an internship, part-time work or full time employment (a shout out for all the people graduating this year!) – may seem like a challenge, but with our previous advice you already have the perfect CV, so making the most out of job fairs is another important step in getting you on track for that most wanted job!
So, how do you make the most out of job fairs?
A job fair is meant to bring various companies that have vacancies under one roof. Some job fairs focus on a particular industry – others have job roles available from a multitude of industries. Think about it as a real life version of the online website you use to send out your CV and cover letter, but with instant feedback on your application! If the prospects of talking face to face with a potential employer and getting a lots of free pens attracts you, here’s some advice on how to make the most out of them!
- Take it seriously. No matter how relaxed the atmosphere may seem, remember it’s not just a fair – it’s a job fair. Dress appropriately. Business attire is a must! Hint: wear comfortable shoes, as you will be on your feet most of the day.
- Do your homework. Research the companies that will be attending the job fair, taking a particular interest in finding out what vacancies they have. Focus on the company’s values and think how you can link them to your personal and work experience. Prepare a few examples.
- Revise your one-minute pitch. Who are you, and what can you bring to the company?
- Find out the latest news in terms of the firm’s performance or business strategy – they can be a great conversational starter!
- It’s a ‘mini-interview’. You need to see it as an opportunity to chat with a potential employer, emphasising how your previous experience and your studies can be relevant to a particular graduate scheme or vacancy.
- Be assertive and show initiative. Shake hands and introduce yourself to the recruiter when you get to a new stand. Act interested in the company and in what they have to offer. Be prepared to talk about your career goals; have a few answers prepared in terms of what you would like to do, your skills and experience.
- Don’t get stressed if you have to wait in line until you get to talk with a particular employer – that’s exactly the reason you are wearing comfortable shoes ;). Start talking with other candidates! If they are interested in the same company, you already have something in common. You might find out about other opportunities available or exchange previous job hunt experiences. Either way, you’ll be making new contacts – great for expanding your network.
- Bring a few copies of your CV plus some personalised cover letters. Remember recruiters see job fairs as a method of selecting potential candidates, so take the time to prepare as if it was a real interview. You will come across as organised and knowledgeable!
- If this is your first time attending a job fair and you get nervous just thinking that you’ll be talking with a person representing your dream company, a good tactic would be to go and speak to X company first, and then move on to different ones until you feel ready to chat with your first choice. This way you would have practised enough and got your confidence up!
10. Network. Many employers and recruiters from different industries will be attending the job fair; you may focus on a particular company but try to keep your options open. By chatting with other applicants and businesses, you might find out about new job opportunities – a great way of accessing that hidden job market while increasing your connections!
Take the chance to attend a job fair! If you are not looking for a particular vacancy – or you just plan to enjoy the summer sunbathing – having a look at some of the stands and chatting with employers or recruiters will offer you a realistic idea of what may become available in the job market.
If you are looking for a particular job or want get more information about the organisational culture, talking with employers and recruiters will offer you an insight into the firm’s expectations and values, as you’ll get a hands on experience by chatting with the business representatives. You will also receive advice in terms of making applications, ensuring you get to the final stage of the recruitment process: the interview or the assessment centre!
Take the time to research companies that will be present at the job fair, print out a few copies of your CV and edit matching cover letters, be presentable (office gear) and make the most out of chatting with potential employers. You will be prepared, confident and ready to take on the world of job fairs. Good luck!
Until next time,
Roxana
PS: Don’t forget to smile! J Research shows that people who come across as enthusiastic and positive have higher chances of being offered a job!
Access www.thejobfairs.co.uk to keep track of all job fairs across the UK.
