By CHERY SABOL
Western Montana’s Largest Career Fair happens only once a year. With close to 100 employers looking for workers, it’s worth it to prepare now for the April 21 event.
Missoula Job Service, which sponsors the career fair, will hold two free workshops this week on how to succeed at a job fair. There is still room available; call 406-728-7060 to reserve a seat. The hour-long workshops will be Tuesday and Thursday at 2:30 p.m. at Missoula Job Service, 539 South Third Street West.
Preparation means knowing in advance which employers you plan to contact and something about each of those employers. Copies of your up-to-date resume go to your targeted employers when you introduce yourself in a professional and enthusiastic way. Clean clothes and a neat appearance make the impression you want to make.
It takes some focus to navigate the job fair. Missoula Hilton Garden Inn on North Reserve is the venue. Inside the Hilton’s ballroom will be scores of employer booths and even more job seekers. A map of employer booths will be available at the door. It is helpful to take a few minutes to locate on the map the employers who most interest you and visit them first. Be prepared for noise and activity. Some employers show video about their businesses or the jobs they hope to fill. Many offer swag or logoed merchandise to help job seekers remember them.
The career fair is from 3-6 p.m. on April 21. Veterans are admitted a half hour early at 2:30 and the event is a beneficiary of funding from Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve.
Every year, the brief introductions made between employers and job seekers at the career fair result in job offers and new employment. If you’re ready for a change, here’s the place to look!
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Looking for a job in Missoula? Be sure to check out our Missoula Job Listings. Be sure you “LIKE” the Missoula Job Service Facebook Page for daily post on job opening. You’ll also find Missoula-area information on Job Hunting Resources, Job Hunting Tips, Job Interview Tips, tips for writing Cover Letters and Resumes.
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Chery Sabol is an employment consultant at the Missoula Job Service, an organization that offers programs and services to assist employers and job seekers alike. Those looking for employment can view job openings on our website, as well as our Facebook Page and Pinterest Boards. Employment consultants provide résumé reviews, conduct practice interviews, and offer skills testing.
The Job Service also provides a self-service area where job seekers have access to phones, a fax machine, a copier, and computers. Our qualified staff also offers business consulting services, including employee recruitment and retention assistance. Additionally, we provide financial support for businesses looking to train both new and current employees.
We are here to help our community!