Job Fair Tips

As you've probably noticed, we try to post job fair information at least a couple times a week.  Given that, we wanted to post some information that we thought would be helpful to making a job fair more successful for attendees.

• Read all the facts - you want to read all of the information related to the fair.  The job fair may only be for specific industries or job types so make sure it is the right event for you.  You will also find relevant information like dates, times, and registration information. 
• Allow plenty of travel time - most job fairs are held in major cities which means a problem with two things.  Traffic and parking.  Avoid any additional stress and give yourself plenty of time to get there and park.     
• Registration - find out if you need to register ahead of time.  In some cases, if you register ahead of time, you may have access to more information before the event starts.  This also may allow you to make appointments with potential employers or attend resume critiques.
• Attire - Unless the event information says otherwise, ALWAYS dress professionally.  Think of the job fair as you would going to a job interview.  Some of the fairs will even give you the opportunity to interview with potential employers.  Be prepared.
• Bring your resume - Always bring copies of your resume.  You never know who you're going to meet and who's going to request it.  You can buy an inexpensive folder or binder to place them in so they will be easy to carry around with you.
• Follow up - At some point, you are likely to meet and chat with someone about what your looking for and how you might be a good fit for their organization.  Make sure to get a business card and follow up with them within a few days.  Remind them of your conversation and what you talked about.  Try to set up a time to meet them one-on-one if you haven't already.

Job fairs can be a great way to get yourself in front of a lot of companies but it can also be very overwhelming.  The more prepared you are, the more successful the event will be.

What tips do you have about attending job fairs?  Have you found a job by attending one?  Please let us know in the comments below.