Impressing at job fairs

First impression (as they always say) lasts. When you are invited for an interview, you are given the first 5 minutes to work your magic and impress the interviewer. But in an event like a job fair, you are only given at least 30 seconds to impress and get the attention of the recruiter. So, what do you do to make sure they’ll notice you among the thousands of applicants in the crowd? Here are some tips that you can use:

• Before heading off to the job fair venue, do your research. Check who are the participating companies so you’ll know which companies you want to prioritize. This will also give you an idea on how many resumes you need to bring with you (feel free to bring extra number of resumes, you’ll never know when you might need them). Research on the companies so you’ll have an idea on their culture, working environment, mission/vision, history etc.
• When at the venue, ask the organizers for an event map. This would help you navigate the event area especially if it’s a big venue and there are a lot of applicants. This would also help you decide on which company you’ll visit first.
• Introduce yourself to the company representative and inform him/her of the position you are interested in applying. By doing so, they’ll know what position you are applying for. Be prepared with a short statement about yourself and your background. Be enthusiastic and courteous.
• If you could, try to talk to the recruitment manager (if he/she is present) or any senior recruiter and ask about the company, hiring process, vacancies etc. Don’t forget to ask their name or get their business card so you can mention their name when you follow up on your application.
• Dress appropriately. Don’t go walking in jeans, shirt and rubber shoes. Though not required to be in business attire, keep in mind that you are looking for a job and you are there to impress your future employer. So wear a comfortable work clothes (long/short sleeves, slacks, leather shoes for male and blouse, skirt/dress pants, closed heeled shoes for women). This would not hurt you at all if this would mean getting that job interview and that job offer.

 Also, keep in mind that, a lot of companies nowadays are using these events to conduct an on the spot interview. So it’s better if you keep your schedule open when going to job fairs. 

Try to be positive and don’t be disappointed if you didn’t end up with a job offer or a schedule of interview. Remember to be persistent and use the information that you have gathered at the job fair to your advantage.

Good Luck!

(This article of mine originally appeared in BlogStreet.)