How I Got A Job At A Career Fair

At first I had doubts whether or not to go for the event. The fact that it was to hold somewhere around Lekki also discouraged me. I hate Lekki traffic.

 So I stayed in bed that morning. From WhatsApp to Instagram to Twitter and Facebook; I was busy checking notifications and what was happening online.

 Suddenly, I looked at a friend's status, and on it I saw a picture where she was standing beside a Toyota Camry 2015 model. Her caption was, "Getting set for the Lagos Career Fair 2018. If you're at Lekki, let's meet at Crystal Courts."

 I thought she was joking, so I sent her a message to confirm if it was true. Her response was “Yes!”, and that her elder brother was also attending the program. I asked if I could join them in the ride, and she said it was okay.

 When we arrived at the venue, there were so many people inside the hall. Most of them were fresh graduates. There were also many who were experienced professionals and others whom I would call "Early professionals or Semi - Old School employees."

 I didn't know where to start from as it was my first time at a job fair. Different companies and recruitment agencies were present, and when you get to their stand, they tell you about their company and what they'll like to do for you.

 The truth is, I didn't come to the fair that day to look for a job. I just came casually because it was an event, and since it was weekend I wanted to just go somewhere and have fun.

 So I checked Google to find out what a Career fair is all about, and how to get the best out of it. From Google, I switched to YouTube, where I actually saw a Career fair that was held in a city in London.

Immediately, I went to meet one of the ushers to collect the list of all the companies and recruitment agencies scheduled to be at the fair that day. This was an opportunity to get a progression in my career, and I didn't want to miss it.

 So I browsed the list and saw an organisation in the same industry where I work, and one I have been aspiring to get employed in. This made me more determined.

 I went straight to one of the recruitment agencies, and paid to have my CV polished. While that was going on, I checked my desired company’s website to read their vision and mission statement. I also looked at their career page for roles they had that were vacant. I found out one that matched the skill that I have.

 So I followed the advice in one of the blog posts I read while I researched on Google. I created and rehearsed an elevator pitch.

 Then I met with one of the staff, and said, "Hi, Good morning. My name is Princess, and I want to talk to you about the sales position that you have which is currently open in your Branch at Ikeja. I think I am in the best position to fill that role, and the reason is because I have 8 years experience in this same industry. Here's my CV so you can confirm." 

 This caught the attention of the lady, and she offered me a chair so she could get to know me more. We spoke at length that day, and even though the whole conversation looked like they will get back to me, I did something different; which is to ask for a job interview.

 Though I was a bit cautious while asking, and here's what I said to the lady;

 "I really enjoyed this conversation, and I'd love to discuss more about my position and the job that your company is looking to have someone fill. I'd love to come over and speak to anyone who's in charge of recruitment?"

 She wrote down my number and gave to a man who was sitting in front of his computer. She told him to add my name to list of those to be contacted on Monday. I became excited, but that was just the beginning.

 After I left the event, I told myself I was going to prepare very hard to pass the interview. I did, and I got the job. Part of what I learnt while studying for the interview was how to negotiate your best salary. I applied all the techniques, and that was how I got 3× what I was previously earning.

 What this taught me is the importance of attending a career fair when the opportunity arises. At the career fair;

 ●     I had a chance to speak to recruiters and also network with them.

●     There were several job options to choose from, and this gave me a sense that jobs truly exist, contrary to what people say.

●     I could sell my skills to potential employers or clients.

●     I got a new job. Yaay!!!

 If you wish to share in my experience then I'll like to invite you to the next big career fair event.

 It's the "Lagos Career Fair 2019", holding on Saturday, 18th of May 2019 at The Covenant Place, Iganmu (Beside National Theatre). Time is 9am - 4pm, and ADMISSION IS FREE.

Register for Lagos Career Fair, and kindly note that this event is open to fresh graduates, experienced professionals or if you're somewhere in-between.

 I advise you to take action, as this is about to be best time of your life.