How to land a job at a hiring fair

How do you land a job when thousands of other people are vying for thesame one?

A recent job fair for thenew Calgary international airport terminal drew more than 14,000 applicants, and Tuesday's hiring event at the Saddledomeattracted another huge turnout.

In a crowd like that, how do you make an impression?

Richard Bucher, asenior consultant with Right Management and regular contributor to CBC's The Calgary Eyeopener has some tips:

1. Do your research

"You can't backfill preparation," said Bucher.

Figure out which companies are looking to hire at the job fair and what positions they're looking for. Check their website and print out relevant information about their products, services and key competencies they may need.

Be prepared to talk about their company intelligently and in what way you fit.

You want to show up with tailored marketing collateral, so prepareyour answers to key interview questions in advance. Be able to explain why you want to work there and how you'll add value, and think ofgreat questions you can ask the employer on site.

2. Tailor your resume

"With resumes, one size fits one!"said Bucher.

Don't bring a generic resume that caters to a broad range of positions and skills. Bring multiple versions, advises Bucher even for an entry-level position.

"I'm now saying to anybody that's serious about landing work, you have to have a resume custom made for each position you apply to."

3.Dress for success

"When you meet your next boss, what do you want to be wearing?" asked Bucher.

Don't show up in a summery T-shirt and shorts, or in your lounge clothes.

"I'm not there for comfort. I'm there for work. I want to land a job. I want to look professional, and like somebody they want to hire."

4. Go through your checklist

Bucher recommends this checklist of things to do and bring the day of:

• Arrive early
• Professional business card
• Pen and pencil
• Professional portfolio with notepad
• Calendar so you can set up interviews on the spot
• Breath mints
• Plenty of targeted resumes
• Energy, enthusiasm and a great attitude

5. Use your downtime

If you're standing in line waiting for your shot at an interview, don't spend your downtime staring at your phone.

Circulate and connect with others in line and exchange business cards.

With files from The Calgary Eyeopener