GEDC, Chamber Co-Host Area-Wide Job Fair

Giddings, TX  (July 14, 2015) – The Giddings Economic Development Corporation (GEDC), Giddings Chamber of Commerce (GCOC) and Workforce Solutions Rural Capital Area (WSRCA) will host an Area-Wide Job Fair at the Giddings Public Library in Giddings on Monday, July 20, 2015, from 2p.m. to 5p.m. 

This event is free, open to the public and will feature a wide range of companies with vacancies from entry level to professional to clinical/ technical positions. A job fair is an employment strategy designed to fast-track the introduction of job seekers to employers.   Companies participate in job fairs to screen candidates for existing or future job openings.

Companies also participate to introduce themselves as a desirable place to work and to promote their places of work. Companies represented at job fairs gain exposure while also taking advantage of the opportunity to identify and screen qualified candidates.  

Job fairs are a convenient way for those seeking employment to identify companies that have job openings, learn about specific job openings and their requirements, and test the waters with a company before submitting a formal application. 

Companies seeking to participate in a job fair should send 1-3 recruiters or hiring supervisors to staff the booth; actively recruit for existing or future vacancies; be prepared to accept job applications at the job fair; decorate their booth and provide company materials that are informative and attractive to job seekers, and be prepared to answer general questions about the company, including its history, opportunities for advancement, internship opportunities, and health, retirement benefit packages. 

Job seekers are advised that job fairs do not typically result in immediate employment, but can be a first, important step to getting a foot in the door with a company. Candidates should come prepared to put their best foot forward with a polished presentation that includes an up-to-date resume – bring 10-15 copies - and a short, but memorable “elevator speech” that summarizes the job seeker’s qualifications and accomplishments.   Job fair participants should dress as they might for an interview.  In many occupations, business casual is acceptable. As a minimum, however, clothing should be clean and well-maintained, and applicants should be well-groomed. 

As job fairs only last a few hours, job seekers should devise a strategy for best using their time, especially if their goal is to be asked back for an “in-house” interview.   “I typically advise job seekers to prioritize the employers with whom they wish to meet and plan to visit those booths first.   They should prepare questions in advance so that important questions aren’t forgotten.  This can also help build confidence when speaking to the recruiter,” says Tonya Britton, Executive Director, Giddings Economic Development Corporation.   “After the job fair, it’s advisable to send a resume, along with a thank-you letter,” she says.

Anyone in need of assistance with developing, critiquing or printing a resume may contact the Giddings Economic Development Corporation (GEDC) at 979.542.2067 or edcdirector@giddings.net prior to the event.    

Companies interested in hosting a booth at the Giddings Area-Wide Job Fair may pick up an application from the Giddings Chamber of Commerce at 289 W Railroad Row in Giddings, or may request an application by emailing chambergiddings@gmail.com or calling 979.542.3455.

Employers who are unable to attend the job fair, or who would like additional assistance with workforce recruitment are encouraged to contact the GEDC or the Workforce Solutions Rural Capital Area (WSRCA) at http://www.workforcesolutionsrca.com/.   The WSRCA can aid employers with recruiting, interviewing and hiring by providing facilities for interviews, labor market data, information on tax and other incentives relating to workforce hiring, and the opportunity to list jobs on their website.   The WSRCA also assists job seekers through skills assessments, training, and assistance with child care. 

Media Contact: 
Executive Director
Giddings Economic Development Corporation
979.542.2067
edcdirector@giddings.net