A career fair is always an excellent avenue for anyone who is looking for potential employers. Fairs can also help you expand your network so that you get to meet other people from the same industry.
It may seem at first that job fairs are just the same as going to a company for a one-on-one interview, but the truth is, there are actually some differences. The key to making the most of job fairs is understanding what they are and knowing what to expect. To help you out, here are some of the most important things you need to know about job fairs so you’ll get the most from the next one you’re going to:
What is a Careers Fair?
These are events that host multiple employers who may be from the same or from different industries and are looking for new employees. Job fairs typically last for a few days or at least a weekend. In a nutshell, they serve as a temporary center for employers to promote their organizations and for job hunters who are hoping to land a position.
Career fairs vary depending on the focus industry or the size of the event. For example, there may be a job fair for the information technology industry where experienced professionals or even fresh graduates of programming, computer science, and similar degrees can attend. Although these types of focused fairs are popular, there are still a lot of general job fairs where you can find open positions in different industries.
How to Get the Most Out of Every Job Fair You Attend
Despite the fact that career fairs are typically a low-pressure environment that’s certainly less intimidating than a huge office filled with pros in suits, some people still fail to make the most of the opportunities presented to them. Some appear too nervous, too casual, or they could look like they’re not genuinely interested in the position the employer is hiring for.
Now to make sure this doesn’t happen to you, make sure you do this:
Plan for the Fair
It’s likely that there are ads about upcoming job fairs like what you find on The UK Careers Fair and that there’s some info on what companies are joining the fair. That means you have the opportunity to do your homework. Find out more about the companies that are hiring so you can decide which ones interest you and so you can prove to the interviewer that you are indeed interested in the job they’re looking to fill.
Dress for Success
While you’re not expected to wear a power suit, you should, at least, dress in smart casual attire. That means no tattered jeans and sneakers or oversized shirts. Remember that you are technically going to a job interview (or more). Dress as you would if you’re applying in a virtual office.
Be Friendly Yet Professional
Show that you have the right attitude for the job you are applying for. Show confidence but balance it with friendliness and an eagerness to learn, too. Recruiters can see right through the applicants, so make sure that you’re your true self, too, during the interview.
Conclusion
Because career fairs offer an excellent opportunity for job seekers, you should make sure that you make the most of the fairs that you are attending. Hopefully, this post will help you prepare for it well so that you can make the most of it!
Looking for the next Career Fair? The UK Careers Fair is brewing something for you! Starting at 10:00am on October 13th, 2021, there will be a 4-hour career fair in Aberdeen at Pittodrie Stadium 31 Pittodrie Street, Aberdeen AB24 5QH. See you there!