Job fair offers tips for the unemployed

By ANN ESCAMILLA, Staff Reporter.

Having trouble finding a job? Delta College is hosting the Great Lakes Bay Job Fair on March 19 from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. in the Pioneer Gym. With around 61 companies coming, there’s a job for every kind of person.

There are a few things you need to do in order to be successful at a job fair according to Daniel Segura, Associate Director of Counseling/Advising and Career Services. “Days, [even] nights before find out what companies are there. Apply for jobs online before the fair and apply at the fair.”

Chemical Bank, Dow Chemical, S.E. Johnson and the Michigan State Police are some of the companies participating. You don’t want to go in having no idea of what companies are going and what kind of job you are looking for.

It’s also important to dress professionally. Seguara suggests dressing one level higher than the dress of the job you desire. “Home Depot workers probably wear jeans and a nice shirt [at work]. Probably wear nice khakis and a button up [to the job fair]. Don’t go too far. Dress is communicating what you are.”

If you’re having trouble finding something to wear you can always check out Delta’s Closet. The program borrows free professional clothing to Delta students  who may need them for job interviews. Students must provide a college ID. To make an appointment to access the closest contact Lori Ziolkowski at 989-686-9384.

Don’t forget to bring copies of your resume. “A lot of people are looking for a job. Businesses are looking for a real particular person, very specific.” said Segura.

Making a good first impression is important as well. The first 60 seconds can break or make a person. “It’s a different process than looking for a job. 1,000 people come through [and] only 80 some are employed. You only have seconds to make a case. Have a strong first impression.”