INDIANAPOLIS — Looking for a new job or trying to get a promotion can be overwhelming, but the first Monday in November — National Job Action Day — is a day to set aside time to make the career changes you've been waiting for.
You can make career changes by asking for a promotion, a raise, or looking for a new opportunity at a job fair.
The Indianapolis Career Fair will be held at the downtown Marriott on Thursday.
"It's preparation and follow up that are key to your success at a career fair," Ladawn Weston, a career coach at Central Nine Career Center, said.
Weston advises registering for the Indianapolis Career Fair and submitting your resume.
"You definitely want to take advantage of that because before you go, you'll have some time to look at the organizations that are going to be participating," Weston said.
If you know who will be at the job fair, Weston advises you research the companies before going to feel more prepared.
"So, you'll be able to answer questions that are traditionally asked in an interview, like, 'tell me what you know about our organization?' or 'why do you want to work here?'" Weston said. "You will have done your homework and be ready to answer that."
Make sure you have plenty if mistake-free resumes, as well.
"Consider tailoring your resume, so if you've done your research and you know who's going to be there, then you know what they are looking for," Weston said. "So, if you want to take a little extra time, you can prepare specific resumes for specific organizations."
Of course, you'll also want to bring a pen and paper, and wear well-fitted clothes.
This next tip from Weston is an interesting one:
"Start with the ones you are less interested in. I know that sounds backward, but if you do that, you can practice that elevator pitch and hone your skills there," Weston said. "Then, by the time you get to the ones you really want to talk to, you will feel really good about what you are doing."
Weston says preparation and following up after the fair are the two most important things you can do.
"Doing those things are going to enable you to have meaningful and memorable conversations at the career fair and establish relationships," Weston said.
The Indianapolis Career Fair
Thursday, Nov. 7
7202 East 21st Street
11 a.m. 2 p.m.
