Job Fair Tips

I represented my company at a job fair recently. I was supposed to select candidates for my department. The candidates short listed by me were to be later subjected to a long selection process. So, it can be said that I was the first hurdle for anyone interested in being a part of my company.

This was a first for me in a couple of ways. Firstly, I had never attended a job fair before and secondly, this was my first time on the other side of the table - selecting candidates. Based on my experiences there, here are a few tips that may help you bag that job at the next job fair you walk into.

1. Carry your latest resume. No need for any fancy stationery, plain A4 size paper will take you places if you’ve got the right content on it.
2. Do not hesitate approaching the company’s stall as that beats the very purpose of you going to a job fair. In the worst case you’ll be dinged. But you would never find this out unless you approach him.
3. Avoid approaching the company’s stall in large groups. It only dents your chances as you may not be able to cement your position in the minute or so that you are given for your first shot.
4. In case of a rush, wait for your turn. Do not jump the line or be pushy.
5. Feel free to ask company / job specific questions. A conversation is a best way of showcasing your communication skills.
6. Pay attention to the conversations the representative is having with the other candidates. It would only help you know more about the vacancy / company and you could market yourself better.
7. Be clear about the kind of job you looking for. You could get away without this if you are a fresher, but for someone with experience – you got to know what you getting yourself into.
8. Avoid asking salary related questions at the job fair unless you sure that you’re talking to the HR person OR sure of landing yourself the job.
9. Never be rude to the company person, even if your application is turned down.

10. Don’t force him / her to keep your resume. Because, if he is not interested in the first place, your resume is going to land up in the dustbin anyways. So, why waste a copy of your resume?