What Questions Should I Ask At A Job Fair?

by Stephanie Blye

You've waited patiently in line, you've approached the recruiter, you've handed him your CV and you've presented yourself in the best light possible. You were convincing, communicative, practically the ideal candidate for the X company. And then the recruiter asks you: "Do YOU have any questions for me?" You're sweating now, you're stumbling in words and you're panicking. You blew it!

Well, job seeker, companies are in search of active and selective individuals. Addressing the recruiter intelligent questions about his company represents an excellent way of making them remember you.

Here's a short list of potential questions you should ask a recruiter at a job fair. Of course, you will not ask them all, because you'll only have a couple of minutes to talk to them. But this short list will indicate you the right direction which will help you avoid stumbling and sweating.

1. Questions centered on what an employer offers his employees:

• What are the things that attract you about your company?
• How many employees does your company have?
• What are the benefits your company offers?
• What advancement opportunities do you have in your company?
• What level do you expect your company to reach in the next five years?
• What else can you tell me about your comapany?
• How can I get in contact with you if I have any other questions later on?

2. Questions centered on what you can offer to the company:

• What kind of candidate do you search for this job?
• What kind of educational background a candidate for this position should have?
• What kind of professional experience a candidate for this position needs?
• What other abilities an ideal candidate should have?

WHEN YOU TALK, NEVER FORGET TO:

• be friendly and honest
• remain positive and on the topic
• speak clear and in a confident manner

Have all those above in mind and you'll probably hear a "When can you start?" sooner than you might expect!