Healthy Communities • YMCA Employment Programs
8 Tips to Impress Employers at Job Fairs
07 January 2019 - by Sarah Cowan
Getting your resume noticed and landing job interviews can be tough. That’s what makes job fairs so great: you can often be interviewed right on the spot! The question is, how do you maximize that opportunity and put your best foot forward in what can sometimes feel like a high-pressure situation?
Fear not — these tips from our Employment Services team will help you make the best possible impression the next time you’re interviewed at a job fair:
Before heading to a job fair, look at the list of attending employers and research the organizations you’re interested in. Simply typing a company’s name into Google will usually pull up social media pages, websites, and news updates. You should also look into the specific area of the company you’re applying for. This information will come in handy at the job fair: employers will know you’re genuinely interested in working with them because you’ve invested the time and effort in learning what they’re all about.
Just be sure to avoid the most common job search mistakes!
2. Dress to impress.
A professional appearance goes a long way in boosting your chances of not only landing an interview, but the job itself. Wear appropriate business attire and practice good hygiene.
3. Don't come empty handed.
When you walk into a job fair, be prepared to provide a few key pieces of information. Bring a stack of freshly printed resumes, a piece of ID, and your SIN.
For resume writing tips and other advice, book a free one-on-one consultation with a YMCA employment specialist at a centre near you.
4. Get ready to mingle.
Job fairs can be intimidating if you’re a bit shy or have been out of the workforce for an extended period of time. Just remember that employers at job fairs want to meet you. These companies are looking to fill positions and know you could be the perfect candidate. Don’t hesitate to walk up to their booths or tables and introduce yourself.
5. Master the handshake.
Confidence is key when meeting a prospective employer and a firm handshake is a great way to make a lasting impression. Holding eye contact and smiling as you shake hands and introduce yourself can really make you stand out. Above all, be friendly and excited to meet each employer.
6. Sell yourself.
Once your initial introductions are over, it’s time to make your “career pitch.” This is when you’ll want to discuss your experience, qualifications, and why you’d make a good employee. Strike a balance between doing yourself justice, and being brief and to the point. Practicing your pitch in advance is always a good idea.
7. Get some digits.
Don’t forget to ask for a business card or the best way of keeping in contact with the employer before parting ways with them. You’ll show you’re responsible and eager to take the next step.
8. Follow up.
When you get that email address or phone number, use it! Make sure to follow up in the next couple of business days after the job fair is over. This will show you’re proactive and serious about the job.
Ready to wow your next interviewer? Be the first to know about upcoming job fairs and postings by following @YMCAGTAJobs on Twitter.
Fear not — these tips from our Employment Services team will help you make the best possible impression the next time you’re interviewed at a job fair:
- Do your research.
Before heading to a job fair, look at the list of attending employers and research the organizations you’re interested in. Simply typing a company’s name into Google will usually pull up social media pages, websites, and news updates. You should also look into the specific area of the company you’re applying for. This information will come in handy at the job fair: employers will know you’re genuinely interested in working with them because you’ve invested the time and effort in learning what they’re all about.
Just be sure to avoid the most common job search mistakes!
2. Dress to impress.
A professional appearance goes a long way in boosting your chances of not only landing an interview, but the job itself. Wear appropriate business attire and practice good hygiene.
3. Don't come empty handed.
When you walk into a job fair, be prepared to provide a few key pieces of information. Bring a stack of freshly printed resumes, a piece of ID, and your SIN.
For resume writing tips and other advice, book a free one-on-one consultation with a YMCA employment specialist at a centre near you.
4. Get ready to mingle.
Job fairs can be intimidating if you’re a bit shy or have been out of the workforce for an extended period of time. Just remember that employers at job fairs want to meet you. These companies are looking to fill positions and know you could be the perfect candidate. Don’t hesitate to walk up to their booths or tables and introduce yourself.
5. Master the handshake.
Confidence is key when meeting a prospective employer and a firm handshake is a great way to make a lasting impression. Holding eye contact and smiling as you shake hands and introduce yourself can really make you stand out. Above all, be friendly and excited to meet each employer.
6. Sell yourself.
Once your initial introductions are over, it’s time to make your “career pitch.” This is when you’ll want to discuss your experience, qualifications, and why you’d make a good employee. Strike a balance between doing yourself justice, and being brief and to the point. Practicing your pitch in advance is always a good idea.
7. Get some digits.
Don’t forget to ask for a business card or the best way of keeping in contact with the employer before parting ways with them. You’ll show you’re responsible and eager to take the next step.
8. Follow up.
When you get that email address or phone number, use it! Make sure to follow up in the next couple of business days after the job fair is over. This will show you’re proactive and serious about the job.
Ready to wow your next interviewer? Be the first to know about upcoming job fairs and postings by following @YMCAGTAJobs on Twitter.
