It’s that time of year again. No, not the holidays. It’s job hunting season for students.
Job hunting can be stressful, but it’s important to stay focused and keep your goal in mind. Job fairs are the perfect opportunity to network, introduce yourself to many employers, and likely even get hired. Job fairs can be intimidating especially if it’s your first time. Don’t let that stop you from aiming high.
Here’s some tips on doing well at job fairs:
1. Research the companies. This is SO important. Don’t go to a job fair without knowing which companies will be there and what the companies have to offer. Spend some time going through their websites. If you bring up a thing or two about the company; their history, founder, mission, or a recent award they won, it will make you stand out.
2. Bring plenty of copies of your resume. You want to make the most out of the job fair and maximize your chances of getting hired. Make sure you give your resume to each employer you are interested in. For help with your resume, check out the Welcome Centre at Algonquin.
3. Dress for an interview. It may not be a lengthy, formal interview but treat it like you’re going to one. First impressions make a huge difference. Dress for success! Read more on what to wear to a job interview for men and women.
4. Have an elevator pitch ready. Now is not the time to be humble. When you first go up to an employer, express your interest in working for the company and sell yourself. It’s better than awkwardly handing your resume and waiting for the employer to say something. You will seem more confident and competent.
5. Get the representative’s contact information. Attending a job fair is also the perfect opportunity to network. Try to build genuine connections with people and there’s a great chance you will get hired. Reach out to the representative’s later- send them a thank you email. They will appreciate it.
Here’s a few upcoming job fairs in Ottawa this February:
1. Summer Job Fair– Feb. 5
- 10 to 3 p.m.
- Want to gain hands-on experience this summer? Come out to the summer job fair, network, and connect with employers
2. 401 Auto RV Campmart Job Fair (Sales & Service)– Feb. 6
- 10 to 5 p.m.
- Sales associates, managers, and technician openings
- Must hold valid G license
3. Algonquin College Career Networking Fair– Feb. 11
- 11 to 3 p.m.
- GardaWorld wants students to fill security guard positions
- Bring your resume and two pieces of ID
4. Career fairs in Education
- French first language– Feb. 10
- French second language– Feb. 11
5. World Skills Annual Job Fair– Feb. 20
- For newcomers in Ottawa
- Registration at 12:30, fair from 1 to 4 p.m.
- Bring a resume and business card
