Job fairs can lead to profuse sweating, shortened patience, and very long queues. However, these are nothing compared to the prospect of getting a job on the spot or exposing yourself to several potential employees in one day.

All you need to do is learn how to thrive well during the job fair. Most of all, know how you can increase your chances of getting hired through these tips:

1. Know more about the job fair.
Before going into any job fair, identify the companies that will be participating. Sort out and identify the ones you’ll be applying with. It will save you a lot of time and effort if you only approach your preferred employers and jobs. Applying to all companies is not a good idea.

Job fairs are advertised at least a month before the actual event. That should give you plenty of time to research.

2. Wake up early.
Job fairs can last for days, but that does not mean you should not try to be early. As they say, the early bird catches the worm. Being at the venue early will give you a good head-start against hundreds of competitors.

3. Wear decent attire.
Sure, a coat and tie can be very irritating especially if the weather is humid, but then again, jeans and shirt do not spell professionalism. You will be taken more seriously by your future employers if you also give a more serious effort to your dress.

4. Bring several resumes.
Print out a number of resumes and even cover letters. Your potential employers don’t know anything about you. They are going to use these documents during the interview process. If you’re not hired on the spot, they can keep your resume on active file.

5. Practice what you are going to say.
Create a pitch when you are introducing yourself. This will set you apart from the other candidates. Nevertheless, be mindful of your speech. Keep it short, simple, and direct to the point. Don’t waste the interviewer’s time. Usually, in a job fair, HR personnel follow a very strict time limit on each applicant.

6. Listen very carefully and answer briefly.
The time you spend with every employer is very limited. Be attentive so you can properly answer all the questions. Moreover, keep your answers short but honest and straightforward.

7. Be at the job fair alone.
It would be nice to job hunt with friends and colleagues. You can have someone to talk to during idle times. However, never approach an employer’s table together with them. This practice is considered very informal, and there’s very little chance you will be noticed. As an advice, don’t bring your friends or someone you know at the job fair.

8. Practice professionalism.
Never speak against your present or previous employers. Be very sincere with your answers. Learn how to uplift your strengths and downplay your weaknesses. Keep your pride in total control.

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