Career and Job Search Help Blog

Photo by Julia Faherty [CC - BY] via http://www.news.gatech.edu/

A career or job fair is an excellent way to meet a large number of potential employers at one time. These fairs not only provide employment opportunities, but also provide a network for career exploration and professional development. If you are hesitant about attending one, here are five reasons why attendance at a fair can be worth your time.

1. Explore Various Careers 

Fairs are a great way to learn about different industries, workplace environments and career options. Attendance at one will have you thinking about the different occupations within your respective industry or may help you decide on what industry you would like to enter.

   

2. Meet Different Types of Companies

Fairs always include lots of exhibitors from various companies and you can quickly and easily move from one exhibitor table to the other. On a normal day, speaking to multiple companies would involve lots of hours or days spent with back and forth communication, so visiting a fair will save you lots of time and effort.

3. "Networking is the no. 1 unwritten rule of success in business" - Sallie Krawcheck

You never know who you will meet, especially at a Career & Job Fair. Networking is valuable in helping you to establish important contacts that can help in your career development. At career and job fairs, you will get the opportunity to meet face-to-face with representatives from various companies who play a vital role in their company’s hiring process. Connecting with these representatives will allow the employers to learn more about you and can help you to establish a personal connection to complement your resume and cover letter.

   

4. Improve Your Communication and Interview Skills

Job fairs are a place where job seekers can literally meet potential future employers face to face in a kind of "speed dating" atmosphere. With so many opportunities, you will be forced to practice your communication skills.  You might even end up doing an interview on the spot! 

 
 
5. Career & Job Fairs Are Free!

Who doesn't love free, right? Some fairs may require registration but check out the list below for a career and job fair near you. Toronto Public Library will have a booth at the City's annual Job & Career Fair on Wednesday, May 9^th, 2018 at Scarborough Civic Centre.