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What to expect at a job fair (View Comments)
Unnati Narang
Posted On Monday, December 14, 2009 at 11:46:39 AM
Job fairs are a convenient alternative for organisations wanting to conduct cost-effective recruitment for taking in a large number of candidates. At the same time, these job fairs allow a diverse group of job seekers, both fresh graduates and experienced ones, to meet a lot of company representatives from various industries under one roof
Job fairs offer additional opportunity to students whose exposure to the corporate world usually remains confined to campus placements. In context of the financial downturn, the fairs have gained greater popularity. Samir Chopra, Director, RE/MAX India explains, “With the global meltdown, the opportunities in campus placements suffered. Consequently, the candidates and the educational institutions have adopted a multi-pronged strategy to enhance the recruitment rate of students. Job fairs offer a variety of jobs for the candidates and also provide the participating candidates the opportunity to learn more about the companies within their community or industry; an opportunity to gather material and compare options. Candidates can investigate how individual companies manage their working environments, salary ranges, benefit packages, how they view a specific job’s responsibilities and expectations and how these offerings and expectations differ from one company to the other.”
Challenges
A common problem at job fairs is the casual approach of the participants. “At times, commitment on the part of both the employers and employees is missing. This commitment is an important essence of finding the best match. The job fairs are useful for students only when these graduate students coming to attend the fair, armed with a degree, aspirations, dreams and un-channeled energy actually know where they are headed. Otherwise, it only results in frustration and drop out,” remarks Dr. Ekta Saxena, Head-Placements and Corporate Relations, Indian Business Academy.
How can student avoid falling in the trap of such a confused state? The best idea is to come prepared. Dr. Saxena continues, “The student must ponder over his own passion, reflecting the same in the CV, supported by the achievement and desire to define the fitment for a particular type of job. The right reflection of personality through appropriate dressing and communication skills with synchronised body language are some of the key traits required by the recruiting agencies. Another add-on is to be updated with the current scenario and events of importance taking place in the world. Being expressive, communicative, assertive, innovative are the welcome traits and always catches the attention of the recruiters.
Making the most of job fairs
The more active a candidate is in exploring various stalls and talking to more and more people, the greater are his chances of successfully landing up in the right job. Surabhi shares critical tips, “Candidates should prepare well for a job fair. They must always carry an employment portfolio, as it is the best tool of marketing. The portfolio should have awards and certificates, internship summary report, degree, diploma certificates and anything that supports their candidacy. Secondly, the candidates should be mindful of their body language. Firm handshake, walking tall and avoiding negative facial expression such as signs of boredom, disbelief and irritation help to avoid any burn outs.”
Thus, following are a few simple tips through which the participants can extract maximum benefit of a job fair:
1. Interact with people as much as possible
2. Remain calm, confident and enthusiastic at all times
3. Dress professionally and make sure you feel comfortable in your attire
4. Be ready to answer questions about your achievements and career goals
5. Do not try to rush things such as getting an interview call
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