The Kearney Chamber of Commerce’s 3rd Annual Hiring Fair is happening in less than two weeks, and the Chamber is expecting it to be well attended. With just a few weeks left before the Hiring Fair, now is the time for job seekers to be looking over their resumes and brushing up on interview skills. Here are a few tips for success at hiring events:

Have a goal. This is a hiring fair, not a trade show. Make your goal to find your next job or career, not to pick up as much swag as you can.

Resumes. Make sure your resume is up to date and looks professional. Proofread your resume, then have other people proofread it. Look carefully for spelling and grammar errors.

Take the Event Seriously. A hiring fair is like an interview, only with several potential employers. Employers will meet several individuals during the event so make sure you stand out.

Interviewing. Interviewing can be intimidating! Just remember to be confident; you are talking about the one thing you know best – yourself! Prepare answers to interview questions just as you would any other employment interview.

Ask Questions. The hiring fair experience gives you a chance to interview local businesses too. You can ask questions about the business environment, corporate policies, and day-to-day expectations. If you are genuinely interested, let them know. “I’m excited about the possibilities your company offers, and I think I have the skills you’re looking for…What do I need to do to arrange a second interview?”

Attire. Know what the expected attire of your profession is and dress accordingly. It is always better to be overdressed than underdressed.

Follow-Up. Some of our hiring fair participants will be interviewing and making offers at the event. If you don’t get an offer, then follow up with the company. Be sure you take a business card from the interviewer and send a thank you email or letter the next day.

The 3rd annual Hiring Fair will be held at the Kearney United Methodist Church on Thursday, April 13. It’s open to all area companies and individuals from 3:30 – 6:30 pm and professionals of all levels are highly encouraged to attend and participate.

This hiring fair is a great resource for students and adults to connect with employers who are actively seeking quality people looking for employment. Representatives from these companies will be actively recruiting at the event with others signing up every week: Mr. Dell’s Foods; Liberty Hospital; Clay County; Kearney School District, city and fire district; Kona Ice; ISOTech/KC Coyote; and Price Chopper.

For more information contact the Chamber of Commerce office at 816-628-4229 or by email at Stacie@KearneyChamber.org.

KPGZ News - Brian Watts contributed to this story