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There are different types of job fairs. Each has distinguishing features,
though the common denominator is matching companies with new employees.
Here is a list of typical job fair vehicles:
- Campus job fairs
Campus-sponsored job fairs are by far the most popular for new
graduates. It is held on campus and is an ideal venue for companies
recruiting for entry-level positions, internships, cooperative education
programs and available summer or part time jobs. Larger campuses often
host several job fairs, each geared toward a specific academic or
vocational discipline.
- Community job fairs
This type of job fair is general in nature and does not target specific
skill sets. Community job fairs receive participation from a large cross-
section of companies in the community. You might find yourself next to a
variety of industry sector people, from furniture manufacturers to food
service and catering services.
- Professional job fairs
These job fairs are geared to attract candidates from a wide range of
professional occupations, such as accounting, engineering or sales.
Professional job fairs are usually organized by professional associations
and/or industry groups.
- Specialty job fairs
As the name implies, these job fairs target specific specialty groups such
as a "Technical Job Fair."
Job fairs allow small and medium sized businesses to meet with many potential
job applicants in one location in a short time frame. This recruitment vehicle
offers reciprocal advantages: you are looking for talent; job seekers are
looking for opportunity. In addition to providing hiring opportunities, job
fairs offer your company visibility and publicity.
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If you choose to participate in a job fair, you have to create a favorable
first impression. Remember, you are attracting candidates and marketing
your company at the same time. This requires an investment of time and
money to develop a professional booth and presentation materials:
- Display booth
Prominently display information about your company and its mission, products
and services. Use several media: banners or posters, table displays, and
audio-visual demonstrations.
- Literature and brochures to distribute
This includes pamphlets about your products and services as well as
information on the positions available in your company.
- Application forms
This is optional. It is simpler to accept résumés and spend
time later following up with selected applicants.
- Business cards
Cards or hand-outs bearing your company's name and contact information should
be printed for distribution at the career fair.
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