“One employer said he had more resumes in two hours than when he advertised for two months,” said Rhonda Zasitko, executive director for Southwest Employment Services, a Nova Scotia Works Employment Services Centre.
She says participants told her afterwards that the event was a huge success.
“People thought the event was very well organized and looked professional,” she said. “They also said that the booths were well spaced and had enough room for a good set up.”
Other comments included: very friendly atmosphere, very informative, happy to see students were considered for positions.
Zasitko added that the only modification for next year might be to hold the event two weeks later to attract more students who were still away studying at university or college.
Many newcomers attended the job fair. Many visitors said they hope the event will be held next year.
People had the added benefit of an area referred to as the “hub,” which was staffed by career practitioners.
Job seekers received additional support from the assistants in several ways and applicants with a resume could receive helpful tips on it after a free review.
Those who were nervous about talking to an employer could practice their intro or answers with a career practitioner. Job seekers could also use computers/printers for extra resume copies.
“The set-up worked very well with the hub at the front-centre and the booths in the middle and at the sides. The employers saw a number of individuals with excellent skills. We are hoping that there are a number of solid job matches,” said Zasitko.
Five service providers and 32 employers registered for a total of 37 booths. There were 316 job seekers. Organizers hope to reach 350 next year.
Zasitko says hard-working volunteers were a big part of the event.
“We will definitely hold it again and hope that everyone who helped can do so again next year,” she said.
