So what is a career fair? The exact type of any given job fair can vary most career fairs share in common the fact that representative from companies that are hiring attend to connect with local job seekers. When you are applying for Charleston jobs and you want to cast a wide net, it's a good idea to make room in your calender to attend some of these events when they happen around Charleston. Job fairs, however, require their own level of strategy and planning, so here are the steps you should follow when you pay a visit to one.
1. Research the job fair: always take some time to check out which companies and organizations will have booths at the fair. If there are companies there you arent interested in or who dont offer any work that suits your skills and background, you will know not to visit to maximize your time with more positive prospects. If there are some companies that you think are suitable, find out as much about them as you can, and prioritize which company representatives you want to speak with.
2. Dress and act professionally: The Wall Street Journal recommends treating the job fair like a job interview. That is, dress (business attire) and act like you would for an interview, and do the sort of preparation you would do before one. It is also common for recruiters to put you through a proto-interview when you talk to them, so it is important to be prepared. These can also help you for the real interview if the company is interested.
3. Dont be shy: talking to new people, especially to people who could have sway over your employment, can be frightening for some people. If you are someone who feels that way, it is important to overcome that fear. Talking to recruiters and getting your name out there is entirely the point of career fairs, and if you dont do that, then you're not making an effective use of your time.
By Kyle Wise
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