A job fair is a unique networking opportunity that puts many different employers under one roof to network with potential employees, usually over the course of just a single day.Job fairs can put participants on the fast-track to finding a job, help companies fill vacancies and solve workforce issues in the community.To organize a successful job fair, you'll need to cater to both the jobseeker and the company looking for future employees.
Step 1: A committee or group of individuals will be in charge of the plans for the job fair.
Depending on the size of your job fair, it may be important to have one or more people focused on certain areas: marketing, logistics, volunteer/staff for the event, employer contact, signs and graphics, secretarial and administrative duties.One or two people can be helpful at a job fair.
Step 2: At least 4 months ahead of time, you should set a date and time for your job fair.
The budget includes money for the venue and advertising.
Step 3: You can reserve a space for your job fair.
Block out areas for company booths, registration tables, concessions and so on in a detailed diagram layout of the space.
Step 4: Companies should be invited to the job fair.
You can cater to a broad segment of job seekers if you mix companies from a variety of industries.When you get confirmations, ask if there are any special equipment needs for the day.
Step 5: Distribute marketing materials.
Place fliers at coffee shops, libraries and grocery stores, as well as nearby colleges and high schools.Consider placing ads in local and regional newspapers.Media coverage on the day of the event should be set up.
Step 6: Each jobseeker will receive a professional job fair packet when they attend the fair.
The map and list of companies should be included in the information.
Step 7: Booths should be set up at the venue.
Consider putting an interview room away from the other booths that employers can use for on-the-spot interviews.
Step 8: A map of where the company's booth is located, along with company vacancies listings at the entrance and key areas of the job fair venue, would be a good idea.
Step 9: Prepare signs for the event.
Step 10: Volunteers can be put at strategic points throughout the fair to answer questions.
People should be present at entrances and exits.If they're having trouble getting away from their booths, ask the employer representatives if they need anything.
Step 11: Video and pictures can be used in promotional materials next year.
Step 12: Survey exiting job seekers to get their feedback.
Step 13: Evaluate attendance and analyze the surveys.
Step 14: Send thank-you notes to employers about a week after the event and include a survey to get feedback.
Step 15: You can share the success on your website and community media outlets.
Step 16: Discuss what went well at the job fair and what can be improved next time when you gather with your team one last time.
Step 17: If you want to plan your next job fair, you need to write down ideas and file a final report.