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Questions To Ask At Job Fairs

Job fairs should be just one small part of your entire job search process, however, they can be a successful part. You might read a lot about the good things of a job fair, expert's tips to get the most from them, etc. and etc. but keep in mind that as with any situation where you find yourself with a potential employer, job seekers must be prepared to ask insightful questions of recruiters at job and career fairs.

There are four categories of questions you can ask recruiters at job fairs. Each category has a specific strategy. Which questions should you ask? It depends on the recruiter, on your interest and knowledge of the company, and how much time you have with the recruiter. Randall S. Hansen of Quintessential Careers will give you some samples.

Strategic Comeback Questions

These questions are designed to give job-seekers the chance to respond to the recruiter's answer with a positive spin on how you perfectly fit what the company is looking for in an employee.

• What are the characteristics of your most successful employees?

• Which courses or experiences do you suggest to be a successful candidate?

Strategic Planning Questions

These questions are designed to give the job-seeker more information and knowledge about the hiring process for each particular employer.

• How long does the hiring process take? What does it consist of?

• What percent of applicants are eventually hired? What is the retention rate?

Key Company Information

These questions are designed to provide you with critical inside information you need to know when making a decision about the attractiveness of each potential employer. Remember, a job fair is a two-way street and you should be evaluating these companies as much as they are evaluating you.

• Are there specific career tracks within the organization? In other words, what can a typical employee (for the position I am seeking) hired in your division expect to be doing 2, 5, or 10 years after hiring?

• What is your organization's culture like?

• Are their opportunities for ongoing training through your organization?

Of course, you can try more questions by yourself and fortunately, there's a good chance for practicing this weekend: the City Careers Fair from Aug 6. Be confident!

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