You’re about to attend your first job fair in the hopes of landing a new, energetic, engaging, reliable and talented employee for your team. You remembered to bring a generous supply of business cards and even a professionally produced easel board describing your business. Think you’re ready? Think again... What to bring with you
According to Kim Slaton, acting CEO of JVS Career Services in Cincinnati, a lot of preparation is required prior to attending a job fair. “It’s important to remember that participating in a job fair is another level of exposure for your company. That means it is paramount your booth looks professional and well-thought out so your business makes an excellent first-impression on potential job candidates who are supposedly trying to make an excellent first-impression on you,” she said.
In order to create a professional-looking table, Slaton suggested it include:
- At least one laptop upon which job candidates can instantly apply for a position
- Professional business cards and brochures detailing the company
- Written job descriptions
Even if your company doesn’t have any positions open at the time of the job fair, it’s still an excellent idea to participate, for several reasons. First, it’s a fantastic way to meet potential job candidates should a position become available, something that can happen on any given day. It’s also another opportunity to market your business and encourage conversation about it.
“Participating in a job fair is also an excellent way to see what your competitors are doing, but in a subtle, professional way,” said Slaton.
Tami Kamin Meyer is an Ohio attorney and writer.
