The Right Way to Work the Job Fair
Walking around the many employers stationed inside the Newburgh Mall, there seemed to be a high level of optimism in the place for the many job seekers that would eventually occupy the space. Perhaps optimism would now be a foreign feeling inside the once popular destination located on Route 300 in Newburgh, NY. Job seekers were excited to see what was being offered in the area and employers equally enthusiastic to network, gain brand recognition, and hopefully find some brand ambassadors.
“I think it’s best to have face-to-face interaction, and let people in the area know that some great companies are hiring,” said Tyese of Anthem Inc., a health care company. She also discussed the benefits of job seekers coming to these fairs, learning about the company that could potentially hire them, and utilizing all the tools accessible to get any opportunity possible.
As much as the employers are looking for new employees, they also come to these events to gain exposure in a community. Especially for a brand new business like McKesson, a pharmaceutical distribution company. Jessica, a Marist College alum, said “We’re here more to get our name out in the community, rather than just hiring a bunch of people.” Jessica also said that once the building’s construction is completed, estimated for spring 2017, the company would be looking to hire around 200 people.
The ladies from Orange Works, the sponsors of the job fair, also weighed in on what to expect for the all-day event. A recent trend showed that this year and in the last couple years, organizers noticed a rise in employers at the fair and a decline in job seekers, as the economy has improved from the recession. When the recession did occur, Joanne of Orange Works said, “We must have had half the employers there are here today (116) and thousands of people seeking any kind of work.”
All the employers I spoke with gave their own tips on how to really stand out among the many people who attend the fair. Since few of the companies actually hire on the spot it makes it even more important to leave a good impression with the company representatives. Showing interest in what the company offers, and how they conduct business all seemed important to many of the employers, to just walk over, drop off a resume and then walk away is not the way to landing a job.
After speaking to many of the job seekers, they all felt positive about their chances of finding a sustainable job and discussed how encouraging it is to see so many different employers hiring in the area. For first time attendee Jessica, she said, “I didn’t know what to expect, but I am hoping to find a job related to nursing.” Many other people came to the event to browse at what type of job opportunities are available regardless of whether they are looking for a job or not.
By the end of the event it became quite apparent that all the employers seek the same general characteristics from potential employees. Sean Brix from Hudson Valley Federal Credit Union summed it up well by saying, “You don’t know who you’ll get to talk to at these events so it’s best to be outgoing, talk to as many people as possible and finally try to take advantage of all the resources available.” Clearly, how well job seekers present themselves in person is just as important as how impressive their resume is.
