Job Fairs

Our clients ask, "Should we go", or they lament, "How much value is there in attending a function where hundreds of people mill around and no one talks with you for more than five minutes anyway?"

Our advice? Go. If you are an introvert there are a few things to keep in mind to make the experience worth the huge effort it sometimes takes putting yourself out there.

Prepare yourself ahead of time by getting rest, spending some time alone before you go, and mentally get ready for the energy it takes to be "on" for a few hours. When you walk in the door, remember that 75% of our country's population are extraverts and expect you to be outwardly energetic and enthusiastic. Play the part.

Bring numerous copies of your resume on the best quality paper. Have enough business cards with you to hand out to everyone you meet. If you are not currently working, make up your own business cards through a professional printer with your name, contact information and a bullet or two stating your area of expertise.

Establish a reasonable goal for yourself prior to attending. For example, if you go and meet five new people, exchange business cards and leave the door open for a follow-up call with each of them, you have had a very successful day! Meeting five new people with whom you can network on a more personal level at a later date can open up an entire new stream of networking contacts.

Learn as much as you can about every company represented at the job fair. Gather literature, find out the name of the department heads and/or recruiters. This information alone can be worth the visit.

Be prepared to feel a little discouraged. Job fairs can be very isolating events that don't leave participants with a great feeling of being valued as individuals. Sometimes these fairs are "meat markets". Remind yourself ahead of time that you are a competent person with a lot to offer potential employers. Stay centered.