One of the greatest fears college students have is the worry that they will not find a job after graduation.
Even in a time where a Bachelor’s degree is almost essential for any secure career, it can still be hard for graduates to be hired into their field. This is why networking with professionals throughout your time on campus is fundamental for post-graduation success. Career fairs are a great way to get your foot in the door and meet important people that can help you jumpstart your career.
When you attend a virtual or in-person career fair, you are opening the doors to many opportunities at one time. Even if a particular company may at first look like it does not currently have a position that fits your credentials, you are still making an important and meaningful connection with that person and putting your name out into the workforce.
At the beginning of a networking experience, you may have an ideal picture of what career path you would like to take. Meeting people and understanding what jobs are out there and what a future employer needs and expectations they may have can give you a better understanding of what your ideal job might entail or maybe it will completely open your eyes to a new pathway. Handshake, the platform for OFIC’s Virtual CareerFest 2022, has a great list of tips to help you best prepare for success.
Employers were once in your shoes and have gained valuable experience throughout their careers. They will have some expert advice to share with you or new insights and suggestions to landing your dream job. Throughout this experience, you could gain insight about an organization and what it would truly like to work there. You can also give them your resume to review and put your face to the name as you introduce yourself. With these and other steps you are more likely to be remembered and have success.
Career fairs provide the opportunity to practice professional skills while setting yourself apart from other candidates by telling your story to them. If a job is not the direct result of attending, you will still have fresh new connections, experience, advice, and insight to further your career exploration. The potential success and positive effects of attending CareerFest are endless. Find your future career and make your mark by attending OFIC‘s virtual CareerFest on Friday, February 4, 2022, from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm via Handshake.
