While this may seem like basic information for the working professional, these are great tips to provide to students as many times this is the first they are hearing these suggestions for a successful interview

Really knowing your brand and how you want to be perceived as an organization, and establishing that same message consistently.

Really knowing your brand and how you want to be perceived as an organization, and establishing that same message consistently.

The first step is to find out internally what competencies are already in place in the classrooms (research syllabi, talk to program director, etc) Then connect with employer groups to determine what competencies are needed in the workplace. This will help you determine what competencies are needed and how to integrate them into the curriculum. 

Then you need to organize the tasks to be implemented and decide how to distribute the work load. 

By laying the proper groundwork (determining beliefs, mission statement, vision statement, and goals), the career services program will have a clear purpose and direction. Having these things in place, would increase the likelihood of a successful program, and earn the respect of the learners as well as the community partners. 

Gathering data from students and employers through paper and online surveys is a great way to improve future job fair events.

Helping students prepare for job fairs through workshops, resume-building, developing their elevator speeches and conducting mock interviews is essential in preparing them for a hiring event. 

The earlier you start planning and budgeting for a job fair the better. Utilizing previous budget data can assist in decision making, saving time, and provide a great starting point. Including specific details such as how much each item you are planning to include at the event costs in your budget spreadsheet can also assist in making decisions as well as future event planning. 

I learned the difference between a general job fair, a career fair, and a career expo. I also learned that including all departments and clear communication are essential parts of planning a successful job fair.

My take away is to do both surveys in person and online. I believe we would get a better outcome and better feedback. Also to do a follow up with the team after that helped to support the event. Their feedback is just as important to see what worked and what we can improve on.