Looking for a job is no easy task. And career fairs can help alleviate some of the job-seeking woes by offering the opportunity to get out there and make an impression. If you’re planning to attend one, how can you make the best of it?

Participating in career fairs lets job seekers communicate with employers face to face, share their experiences and understand what they are looking for.

“(Employers) can observe non-verbal communication, such as body language and mannerisms, to better size up the candidates,” says Mr Brian Tan, deputy chief executive of the National Trades Union Congress’ Employment and Employability Institute (e2i).

Real-life interaction with potential hires is particularly important for roles that are customer-facing, as employers would prefer to assess the demeanour and service attitude of candidates before shortlisting them, he adds.

Those switching careers or returning from a career break or long periods of unemployment are likely to benefit too, Mr Tan notes.

Fairs give job candidates the chance to display their suitability for a role beyond what their resumes show, mitigating any disadvantage faced against the competition.

Moreover, you may be shortlisted for other roles beyond those offered at the fair.

Mr Tan says: “Career fairs are useful when job seekers seek quick access to a wide range of jobs, or want to explore more job opportunities in a particular area.”

Attending career fairs also allows you to connect with industry experts, learn of new vacancies first and make a great first impression on employers, says Ms Nicole Chan, senior consultant in commerce contract at recruitment firm Robert Walters Singapore.

She suggests that job seekers participate meaningfully in a fair by first reading up on the participating companies, their representatives and the roles up for grabs.

They should also practise introducing themselves to prospective employers and prepare a list of relevant questions to ask. This could include asking about the job scope, company history and culture, and career progression, says Ms Chan.

Job seekers can also prepare for a fair by engaging career coaches, such as from e2i, for interview tips, suggests Mr Tan.

On the day itself, they should dress professionally in business attire to make a good first impression.

“Bring several copies of your resume along and a notebook to take down notes,” says Ms Chan.

Job seekers can stand out by creating a customised resume for each job posting they are interested in.

The resume should show that you possess the specific skills each job requires, instead of merely listing working experience that may not be directly relevant, says Mr Tan.

You should also be prepared for the possibility of an interview on the spot.

In cases where interviews are conducted at the fair, job seekers should identify those they wish to attend in advance to ensure they will not miss them, adds Mr Tan.

Ms Chan suggests asking for a business card or contact details of prospective employers to demonstrate your interest in furthering your career with the organisation.

You should then contact the people you spoke to, connect with them on professional networking platform LinkedIn, and e-mail employers your resume after leaving the fair, she adds.

Text: Tay Hong Yi/The Straits Times