Career fairs are a great way to find out about South Florida jobs, network, meet potential employers, and sharpen your interviewing skills. That said, there are certainly some strategies you can employ to maximize your career fair efforts and get in the running for a new job. Here’s a look:
Do your homework.
The last thing a recruiter wants to hear when you greet them is “What does your company do?” or “What kinds of jobs do you have?”
Instead, do your homework ahead of time. Research the companies you want to visit at the career fair. Oftentimes, you can also find out about the South Florida jobs ahead of time, whether they’re posted on their website or from a job board.
Create a customized pitch.
Once you’ve done your homework, create a customized greeting that will really stand out from other candidates, such as:
“Hi, my name is Michael. I read that your company just launched a brand new XYZ. I used to work at the XYZ department in my last job. I’d love to talk with you more about how my skills might fit well with your company.”
This may not be possible for every single employer you visit. But do so for your first choice employers. If you can, also create a customized, targeted resume for those top employers.
Get there early.
Most recruiters are exhausted by the end of the career fair. So try to get there earlier in the day when everyone is fresh.
Look the part.
A recruiter is already forming an opinion of you as you walk up to the booth, before you even open your mouth. So make sure you’re dressed properly – in a suit – and not wearing anything that will raise red flags, like stiletto heels, ill-fitting clothing, or sneakers.
Also, don’t chew gum or be sucking on mints in front of the recruiter. If you need to, do so before you walk up to each booth.
Keep up your energy level.
Recruiters aren’t the only ones who get tired by the end of the day; attendees do to. But it’s important to keep your enthusiasm level up when you speak with each recruiter. Make eye contact and smile. Force yourself if you have to.
Keep it short.
Don’t wear out your welcome with a long monologue about how great you are. If the recruiter wants to keep talking, he or she will let you know by asking you questions. But it’s better to end the conversation on a short, but pleasant note, rather than an awkward one.
While you likely won’t get hired on the spot at a job fair, it can certainly lead to an interview that will hopefully lead to a job offer. So you have nothing to lose by going to a job fair and using the strategies above to knock it out of the park!
And if you’d like additional help finding jobs in South Florida, give Future Force Personnel a call. Since 1992, we’ve helped thousands of applicants find rewarding jobs with great South Florida companies. We may be able to help you too!