This After Grad author is in full job search mode. In addition to traditional search methods, such as job search Web sites and local classified sections, career fairs are a great way to network, find local jobs, and gain experience.
As I’ve been told throughout my undergraduate career, “It’s all about who you know.” Applicants are finding jobs through peers and other professional contacts. According to the latest Help-Wanted Online Data Series report, over the last two months (December 2008 and January 2009) there has been a 1 million, or 23 percent, decline in the number of advertised job vacancies. Career fairs are an excellent time to network, or make professional contacts, and find out about non-advertised positions.
I recently attended the C2C, College to Career Fair, in Richmond, Virginia. I was able to expand my network by interacting with fair participants. Receiving several business cards and e-mail addresses, one participant urged me to contact her for advice and for a list of possible employers. She expressed that I was not a good fit her company, but referred me to three organizations I would be a good fit for. This is a perfect example of networking at career fairs- I was able to increase my network and found out about possible jobs through one fair participant.
Even if the fair does not lead to a job, career fairs are a great way to gain experience interacting with peers and company representatives in a professional setting. The more experience you get “selling” yourself, or talking about your skills and proficiencies, the better!
I understand how hard it can be to find a job. Remember to relax, put your best foot forward, and take advantage of everything career fairs have to offer.
