How does a job fair work?

For a job seeker, participating in a job fair can be an excellent opportunity to connect with potential employers, explore job opportunities, and advance your career. Here's how a job fair works from the perspective of a job seeker:

Preparation:

Job seekers research the companies and industries attending the job fair to identify those of interest.

Update your CV and LinkedIn profiles to highlight skills, experiences, and qualifications.

Prepare questions to ask recruiters and practice your elevator pitch.

Registration and Arrival:

Register for the job fair of interest, usually online pre-event, and receive event details, including the location, schedule, and other useful information.

On the day of the job fair, job seekers arriving at the venue should bring copies of their CV, and any other relevant materials.

Exploration and Networking:

Job seekers can navigate the job fair by visiting stands of companies they're interested in.

Engage with recruiters and representatives, introduce yourself, and enquire about available job opportunities, company culture, and hiring processes.

Job seekers can exchange CVs and contact information with recruiters to stay connected.

Information Gathering:

Job seekers can gather information about job openings, application forms, and company requirements from recruiters.

Learn about the skills and qualifications sought by employers, as well as potential career paths within different organisations.

Application and Interviews:

Job seekers are encouraged to submit their CVs and complete job applications for positions they're interested in while at the fair, either electronically or in person.

Recruiters may conduct initial screenings or on-the-spot interviews to assess candidates' suitability and fit for available roles.

CV Workshops:

Some job fairs offer CV workshops, or host employability companies that aid candidates on topics such as CV writing, interview skills, and career development.

Job seekers can speak with these representatives to gain valuable insights, network with industry professionals, and enhance their job search strategies.

Follow-Up and Next Steps:

After the job fair, job seekers should follow up with recruiters they met to express continued interest, ask about next steps, or request additional information.

Review materials collected, such as business cards and company brochures/leaflets, and take note of any promising leads or opportunities.

You can continue your job search efforts by applying online and reaching out to recruiters via email or LinkedIn.

Participating in a job fair as a job seeker offers numerous benefits, including the opportunity to connect with employers, gather information about job opportunities, and expand professional networks. Being prepared and actively engaging with recruiters, can maximise a candidates chances of finding suitable employment opportunities.