Are Job Fairs a Good Idea?

This week, I attended a job fair. It's the first one I attended since I was a college senior. I don't know if I have an aversion to them or if I never saw their purpose, but I see advertisements for job fairs regularly. It makes perfect sense: if you need a job, go to a place where diverse employers are hiring. Right?

Truth be told, I went into this job fair with low expectations. I have a job currently and was just looking around at other prospects. Since I don't want to discourage anyone from job fairs, I came up with some tips that will help you navigate the over-crowded floor if you attend one.

First, reading articles like these will only make you feel discouraged before you arrive. Though I think this article has good points, it's the point of view of someone with a graduate degree who has been laid off. This is hardly the mentality to have if you're a college student or recent graduate. Please, stay a positive idealist for as long as possible. I do think it's a good idea, however, to research job fairs in your area and your field. Some are little more than happy hours where companies look for new business prospects. Put time and energy into what works for you. If you have the time to go to more than one career fair, it's a nice way to compare and contrast companies and businesses.

Secondly, research strategies that will help you succeed before you arrive at a career fair, during the career fair, and after you leave the career fair. You must update your resume and portfolio (if your field requires one) and dress professionally. But, just as importantly, research the companies that will be attending the career fair. I think it's a good idea to come up with a short list of companies that you really are interested in. When you arrive at the job fair, find a map or layout of each company so you can canvass the area in a smart and timely fashion. Don't waste time with companies who are giving a big sales pitch or who you have no interest in.

Act enthusiastic, as though it's a job interview. First impressions go a long way so show the employer how you would act if you landed the job. Ask questions (this goes back to doing your research) and offer something unique about yourself as well.

Lastly, follow up with the people you spoke to. Try to get business cards or at least remember first and last names so you can search the company's site after the job fair. Then, send a quick thank you note so your name is fresh on the employer's brain.

Have you had any success at job fairs? Please let me know in the comments section. Read more advice at collegejobbankblog.com.

Amy worked in corporate public relations for three years before returning to graduate school to become an English teacher. She is also a freelance writer for CollegeJobBank.Com. Her strengths include: drafting speeches, writing talking points for media interviews, making corporate presentations, and writing for publications. Read more of her blogs at collegejobbankblog.com. Find jobs and other information at Nexxt.