Heather MacIsaac, an employment-engagement specialist with Career Connections Nova Scotia Works, said a job fair being hosted at the Pictou County Wellness Centre April 26 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. is the place for people to find their next job.
“This is our biggest year,” she said, adding that some employers have been put on a waiting list and there are thoughts of expanding the fair even more next year. “Employers have the jobs. There is work out there so come out to the job fair and meet them one on one. It really makes a difference making the face-to-face connection.”
There are 37 employers participating in the job fair including everything from retail to heath care positions.
MacIsaac said more than 700 people toured the job fair last year and some people were given interview appointments on the spot. She knows of another company that hired four people immediately following the day.
“We never have any negative feedback from our employers. They are always pleased with the turnout and calibre of people coming to the fair,” she said.
As for job seekers, she said common sense is important when it comes to making a good first impression. People should dress appropriately, shake an employer’s hand and have their resumes ready to hand over.
People looking for work should never be distracted by their phones or any other electronic device while speaking with employers and should always take time to properly introduce themselves.
“If a table is busy, go back and talk to a person later and get a business card from them so you can follow up after the job fair,” she said.
People can bring their resumes in to Career Connections to have extra copies printed off a few days before the fair, she said.
A virtual job fair will also be held April 28 at Glasgow Square Theatre from 1 to 4 p.m. During that time New Glasgow councillor John Guthro will talk about his own experience working from home, then companies will talk about what opportunities they have available. As an extra way to help, New Glasgow Regional Police have offered to provide free background checks for town residents who need to complete one for the job.
More information on the virtual job fair can be found on the Town of New Glasgow’s website.
Who is coming to the Career Connections Job Fair:
Airfield Engineering Flight
Canadian Armed Forces
Carpenters Millwright Trades College
Commercial Safety College
Northeast Nova Scotia Correctional Facility Justice
Glen Haven Manor
Highland Community Residential Services
Northern Pulp, Abercrombie
NSCC
Operating Engineers Training Institute
RCMP "H" Division Headquarters
Sobeys National
Stright MacKay
Randstad
Fox Harb'r Golf Resort & Spa
Pictou Lodge
Jane Norman College (formerly IHSE)
Bell Atlantic
North Nova Seafoods
Staples
High Gloss
Pictou County Home Health Care
Safety First