JOB FAIR AS NETWORKING EVENT
Carol Stanton, CGS Career Counselor
Over the years, I've heard a number of people complain that going to a job fair is a waste of time because recruiters often tell them to go to the company website and apply on-line. Job fairs are not just about applying for jobs. If you want to take advantage of a job fair, you need to look at it as a networking event. Whether you're looking for a full time job or an internship, the emphasis should be on meeting people, not just applying for jobs. Since 70% of jobs are found through networking, use the job fair to build your job search network.
How do you prepare for the job fair? Of course, do the basics. Research employers so that you can target organizations and ask intelligent question. Revise and proofread your resume. Make enough copies. Plan to dress in a professional manner, as if you are going to a job interview. Prepare to talk about yourself and your skills. And, most importantly, brush up on your networking skills.
What do you do once you're at the job fair? It's a good idea to arrive early and scope out the venue and organization of the job fair. Identify the companies that you're most interested in and prioritize who you will talk to. Relax and spend a few moments to check your attitude to make sure you'll make the best impression. Remind yourself that your goal is to meet more people in order to expand your network. Here are the people you will meet who could become part of your network:
Recruiters. When talking to recruiters, make it a point to connect with them, not just ask about job openings. If you make a good impression, they will remember that more than your resume. Give a firm handshake, look them in the eye, and introduce yourself with your name, major, and career goals. If you've done your homework and researched the company already, you should have some good questions to ask. If you're interested in following through, ask for their business card. A follow up thank-you note, with a reminder of what you talked about, will make you stand out from the crowd.
Other Job Seekers. If you're standing in line waiting to talk to a recruiter, be sure to talk to the other people in line with you. They may have valuable experiences, ideas, or contacts to share. Have your business cards ready to exchange, if you want to stay in touch with them. Why not start a job search support group with other job seekers?
Career Professionals. If you meet career professionals at the job fair, take time to talk with them. These could be career counselors or the organizers of the job fair. Talk to them about your career goal and see if they have any networking suggestions. They are good people to have in your network. Perhaps they know about an organization at the job fair that you may not have considered. You also may want to show them your resume and get feedback.
Serendipity Contacts. These are the people that you've met before and now you've accidentally run into them again at the job fair. They could be neighbors, old friends, or people you've seen at other events. Take time to re-establish contacts and let them know about your career goals. Ask if they have networking contacts in the field you're interested in. Also, remember that networking is a two-way street, so offer any connections you might have for them. Have your business cards ready to exchange.
Learning more about networking skills is one of the best things you can do to prepare for a job fair. Find out more about networking from your career counselor, a mentor, or an experienced networker. There are also websites and excellent books on this subject.
A personal connection that makes an impression is still one of the best job search tools. Take advantage of the networking possibilities at your next job fair. It just might be the first step to a new job!
If you need help with networking skills or anything related to your career goals, call Carol Stanton, the CGS Career Counselor, at 412 624 1689 or email cstanton@pitt.edu .
