A job fair is a place set up by different companies — sometimes by the government too — where various job opportunities are available under one roof. Sounds like a career heaven, doesn’t it? In job fairs, potential employers and hiring consultants give advice and information regarding vacancies and opportunities in various organizations. Some of the candidates see this interaction as their first interview while others come looking for future prospects with particular companies. Irrespective of the reason for attending, there are certain things you must always carry when going to a job fair. Questions such as ‘Do I need to be formally dressed?’ or ‘Will I directly get picked up by the company?’ arise in the minds of prospective employees. One thing you need to definitely do is not rush the occasion. If it is a large fair, then spend the entire day looking around. Job fairs are literally considered ‘meat markets’ of the industry. First impressions are based on appearances, qualifications and years of experience. It is like getting evaluated every 10 minutes or so! Taking a powerful approach and rising above the crowd is one of the tricks that you just can't do without! Explore this article further and read about what to take to the career fair!
Things To Take To A Job Fair
Resume
Even before the main day, polish up any errors on your CV and check it once again for spelling and/or grammatical errors. Keywords are important when trying to focus on accomplishments and experience in a resume. Cut out all the stories and make sure the resume is no longer than 3 pages – 1 page for freshers; 2 pages if you have upto 2 years of experience and 3 pages for people with more than 2 years of experience. Print you resume on a white paper so that the text can be seen clearly. You can also make two types of resumes that have slightly altered objectives and hand them out to companies accordingly. Carry about 25-40 copies depending upon how large the event is.
Letters Of Recommendation
Recommendation letters mean a lot of printing! You need 3 copies per company. Letters of recommendation usually comprise of references complete with email addresses and qualifications. Since this does not take up much space, make sure you align the text to the centre of the page. During the selection process, hiring managers usually make a call to the concerned persons to enquire about your general behaviour and work ethics. So make sure you have chosen your references wisely!
Proof Of Previous Work Experience
If you are fresher, the question of past experience doesn’t arise. However, experienced individuals must carry a letter of experience from their previous company. The letter must mention the duration and nature (designation) of your association with your previous firm and might also give a brief about your work-related character. This is generally signed by the management and one copy per company is what you require.
Educational Qualifications Documents
Academic documents are mostly requested in case of freshers and entry level candidates only. This gives the future company an idea about your background and the subjects you have majored in. Even though, academics may not be a measure of your knowledge, it is the only evidence you have of it! Just carry photocopies of your highest qualification papers — originals are not needed at this point.
Files & Briefcase
Don’t carry loose papers around the place. Use one large file or two small files to document the printed sheets. By files, we mean a vinyl, or a leathered, case that binds the papers inside. Folded up and dog-eared resumes will only make rejection certain! Instead of carrying this file in your hands all the time, you could bring along a briefcase — this makes you look professional and helps you avoid the discomfort of holding files. This is also any day preferred to carrying plastic files or bags around which, by the way, are strict no-no’s.
Energy And Confidence
Last but not the least, make your presence felt! An enthused and positive minded person is always considered a better candidate for the job. Exude self-confidence and be sure to dress well. Formal or semi-formal attire is advisable. Act knowledgeable and make sure to thank people for their time.
Above mentioned are some of things that you must have when attending a job fair. Remember that people behind the job fair desks are not the hiring managers; they are just the first step and so you have even lesser reason to be nervous!
