Instead of the traditional approach, which mandates that students independently seek out jobs and send in resumes, a community college job fair brings the employers to the students. Job fairs are essentially large congregations of employers who are seeking out new college graduates to become part of their staff. Typically, job fairs allow students to meet leaders in their career field while allowing students to submit their resume to multiple employers at one big event. In fact, some students attending job fairs are even hired for jobs on the spot!
Nearly every community college provides its students with annual, biannual, or even monthly job fair events. As Lenoir Community College, located in Kingston, North Carolina, asserts, these job fair events are intended to help all students. “Anyone can use a job fair to make contacts, distribute resumes, and explore new avenues of employment.” To take advantage of the many job fair benefits, be sure to prepare yourself with the key tips for job fair success.
- Dress in a suit/business suit. Be sure your appearance is clean and put together. Also, for both men and women, be sure that your suit is not too tight, short, or revealing.
- Greet employers with a firm handshake and warm smile.
- Be sure to maintain eye contact and speak clearly with employers.
- Have your resume ready (do not go searching through your briefcase or bag for the resume or any other materials).
- Have a professional notepad and pen ready in case you need to copy down any information or contact details. This shows potential employers that you are forward thinking and prepared.