This was the question many attendees heard as they registered for a recent job fair. At least 30% percent of those attending the job fair — presumably people looking for jobs — left their resumes at home that day!
Sure, you have to fill out a job application when looking for work, but why would someone attending a job fair — a place with many potential employers gathered — not have a resume on hand to represent their background to a perspective employer? That seems self-defeating.
Misunderstanding job fairs could be part of the reason some did not bring their resumes, or it could be some people really weren’t at the job fair to interview, but more to test the waters and see who is hiring.
But, the fact is, numerous employers were hiring that day and were in need of good employees to fill positions.
What is somewhat perplexing is at a time where job candidates are looking to advance their careers or meet new contacts, at least 30% had nothing to leave behind so someone interested in their skills or background could follow up with the. Hopefully, those job seekers brought something that had their contact information on it, so they could leave it with potential employers.
What can you learn from this?
• Attend job fairs with an expectation of networking and discussing possible job opportunities with employers.
• Job fairs can keep you up-to-speed with the skills employers are looking for, so you can compare your skill sets with other job searchers.
• Always be prepared when you are looking for a job. Expect that each and every day there’s a chance you may meet your new employer.
• Opportunity usually knocks when you least expect it.
• Networking often takes place on an informal level.
•Attending events like job fairs can recharge your job-search momentum.
What if you are one of the 30% who did not bring a resume? What can you do if you find yourself in this situation?
You can bring home the list of employers that were at the job fair, and follow up with them by e-mailing them a cover letter. Better yet, network to find the hiring decision makers for those companies and e-mail them .
What has been your experience with job fairs?
