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2	Is This Your First Time? Attending a job fair is an important job search strategy. Job fairs can be an exciting and stressful experience for the newcomer. Knowing what to expect and practicing your job fair “game plan” can contribute to your success!
3	Why Should YOU Attend a Job Fair? The name of the employment game is networking. It’s your opportunity to meet face-to-face with businesses. A variety of employers are there to meet YOU! Employers exhibit at tables, often with “freebies” and candy as ice-breakers.
4	Why Do Employers Go? It’s an opportunity for on-site screening and interviewing. Provides increased access to qualified and motivated job candidates. A cost-effective recruitment tool for businesses.
5	Realistic Expectations Use a job fair to learn what businesses are looking for in applicants. Network with employers to develop contacts and additional job leads. Be prepared for brief interview opportunities. Expecting to leave a job fair with a job is unrealistic.
6	Before You Go - Know What You Want Have an idea of the kind of work you are looking for. Know your skills and what you have to offer an employer. Focus on skills and abilities, not weaknesses. Remember, it’s not what the employer has for you, but what you can bring to the employer! Need an accommodation? Make the call.
7	Prepare Your “Commercial” A good first impression is critical. Be confident and enthusiastic. Smile! Rehearse a 1-2 minute presentation about your qualifications including education, accomplishments and work experience. Tell the employer what you have to offer; match your qualifications to the employer’s needs.
8	What About Your Resume? Update your resume before you go; no pen or pencil additions. Make sure your copies are clean, free of wrinkles and dirt. Have a general employment objective. Content should be concise and usually one page. Bring more copies than you think you’ll need. Cover letters are not necessary at a job fair.
9	Develop a “Game Plan” Review the list of participating employers in advance. Identify and prioritize businesses and organizations which interest you. Research businesses before the job fair; check web sites and brochures. Pick up a job fair map to locate your target employers; do a walk through before you start. Plan to arrive early and stay late.
10	Dress for Success Professional attire is a must for job fairs. Dress as if you were going to an interview. Make sure your clothes are clean, in fashion, and fit comfortably. Limit accessories, perfume and cologne. Wear comfortable shoes.
11	What to Wear:
12	Don’t Be a Turn Off, Turn IT Off Don’t bring your cell phone, pager, or laptop. Answering calls in the employer’s presence is rude and suggests a lack of interest. If absolutely necessary, have your device turned off or to a silent notification mode.
13	During the Job Fair – Network for Work
14	Now is NOT the Time to Ask: What is the salary? What benefits do you offer? Do you perform drug testing? Do you conduct a criminal background check? Do you hire people with disabilities? How much sick leave will I get? Can I work from home?
15	After the Job Fair – Time to Follow Up Be organized in your follow up. If asked to send a list of references, schedule an appointment or submit other information, make sure you do so promptly. Send thank you letters within 24 hours; showing initiative and gratitude demonstrates interest. If you have not heard back within the employer’s suggested time frame, write a short letter. Use good judgment in repeated contacts; don’t be a nuisance.
16	Practice Makes Perfect Strategize for your next job fair at the WorkSource Job Club. Make attending job fairs a regular part of your job search. Visit Go2WorkSource.com or WorkSourceNorthwest.com to find local events.