(Courtesy of Project Ezrah) This Tuesday evening will be the first-ever career fair brought to the community by Project Ezrah. This event is open to the community and will have a variety of opportunities within multiple types of companies. Just as you would prepare for a meeting, a job seeker should likewise prepare prior to an interview and a job fair. Remember, you have only one chance at a first impression. I was recently privy to a string of emails from directors of different companies. They all collaborate with one another regarding hiring the strongest candidates and share information within their industries. While you might be speaking to one director at one company, he/she might refer you to a colleague who may even be at a different company. You never know where the best lead is going to come from.

Before the Project Ezrah Career Fair

Don’t “walk” into a career fair with zero preparation. These are the things you’ll want to do ahead of time to set yourself up for success.

1. Register ahead of time.

You’re going to want to register beforehand. Take advantage of resume or LinkedIn profile reviews being offered.

2. Research participating organizations.

After registering, take some time to review the organizations attending the career fair. You’ll want to get an idea of some of the companies you’d like to meet with. You also don’t want to walk in unprepared: Learn about the companies and think of questions you’ll want to ask.

Companies look for candidates who are prepared, curious and ask questions. In order to stand out from the crowd, candidates should do their research and know about the companies and positions they are interested in.

3. Prepare your resume.

Because you’re going to provide your resume to employers you meet with, you’re going to want it up to date and spotless for the optimal first impression.

Make sure to have a number of hard copies but also a digital version that is easily accessible and can be emailed right at the job fair.

The same goes for your LinkedIn® account.

4. Practice your pitch.

How will you introduce yourself? Why are you interested in the company? What types of positions are you seeking? How is your previous work experience relevant? What do you plan on asking the representatives at the career fair?

You’ll want to spend some time thinking of questions that the representative will ask you. Your well-thought-out responses could impress a recruiter—and even allow you to stand out.

5. Wear a professional outfit.

You can expect to interact with employers at a career fair. Make the most out of this opportunity to make a connection by looking professional and presentable.

You have the opportunity to get face-to-face with an employer; why wouldn’t you want to be ready for that?

We are coming out of COVID; employers are looking to see if you are back in a professional way and understand the time and place to be dressed appropriately.

6. Be ready to put yourself out there.

At a career fair it’s all the more important to exert yourself to make connections. You as the candidate are the campfire, and if you aren’t warm and glowing it is going to be hard to convince an employer of your skills and charisma

Don’t wait for the employer to engage you in a conversation; the ball is in your court to introduce yourself and ask questions about the organization and open positions.

7. Use clear, professional business communication.

To make a great first impression you’ll want to demonstrate articulate verbal communication as well as being aware of what your body language is saying. Present yourself as a confident and competent job seeker.

8. Ask for next steps and contact information.

When talking to recruiters at the career fair, don’t hesitate to be forward, and offer to send a copy of your resume. You can also ask about the next steps in the process—whether that means getting in touch with human resources, filling out a job application or sitting down for a formal interview.

Before finishing your interaction with a recruiter, be sure to take down their contact information or ask for their business card. You’ll need this information for following up after the career fair.

After the Career Fair

Don’t let your efforts go to waste by neglecting to follow up with connection after the virtual career fair.

9. Reach out the next day with a thank you.

Whether it’s an email or hand-written thank-you note, be sure to reach out to the connections you made at the career fair, thanking them for their time and further expressing your interest.

Because recruiters at career fairs come in contact with many candidates and resumes, you can use this chance to refresh their memory and remind them about why you’re a promising candidate, why you’re interested in the company, and the skills and experiences you bring to the table.

You will also want to send them your resume even if you already have handed it to them at the fair. You can also stay in touch by adding the recruiter on LinkedIn as a connection.

Looking forward to greeting you at the career fair on Tuesday, July 20, at 7 p.m. at the Young Israel of Teaneck.

Please contact Jeff Mendelson at [email protected] with any questions.