Should I stay or should I go?

There is a local Job Fair this week. I often receive questions from people seeking jobs as to the value of attending such an event. There is a great value to attending the job fair from a job seeker perspective. In person job fairs break the barrier of technology and allow casual and active job seekers the opportunity to learn more about a company and create an impression on a hiring manager or recruiter. So, applicants should stop in and talk to representatives at booths. No walk bys please.

We should flip the tables and review the employer impression. Hiring the right associate for each job is key to the success of any business. Employers always expect applicants to be prepared to make a great impression in multiple ways, including timeliness, appropriate attire, completed research on the company, and the ability to clearly explain their experience and skills. Yet, often, employers fail to present this same image.

Employer booths may be set up in multiple ways for success, but should always include friendly, approachable representatives. I personally prefer representatives on the same side and standing with applicants. But the key is for employer representatives to be inviting and interested aka buzzword “engaged”. Representatives who read, text, talk to one another, go to lunch together away from the booth, or are otherwise are not available send a clear message to job seekers and other attendees. This message screams “job seekers, keep walking!”

Another key item to keep in mind is prepping each representative to understand company and job openings. It is helpful to bring managers or associates from the area that is hiring. So, employers, prep your verbal and visual presentation from the job seeker’s perspective. Then, step up and smile!