Casing the Joint
THIEVES are the best strategists. They take trouble, and do their homework. As should you! They call the reconnaissance of a building and its environs and the people all around as `casing the joint'. If they don't do it properly, they'll get caught. And spend considerable time thereafter rueing their lack of preparation. So will you. Unless:
Scene One: You are at the venue of the job fair finally, but have absolutely no clue what to do. The only `things' that are visible everywhere are people and more people. Though you may be tempted to join the swelling ranks— don't! A sensible thing to do would be to check out the place; the various stalls and see where you could best fit in. The herd mentality will get you nowhere on the recruiter's `must interview' list.
A few pointers on how to do it right:
Know thy recruiters
Arrive early to avoid long queues and before the booth representatives are tired and bored. This will give you time to study the stall layout. Take a walk around the stalls first, keep your eyes open to see which recruiters attract the most attention
Don't join the first queue you may happen to encounter. Not all the companies at the fair may be recruiters. You should be able to find out who are the ones actively recruiting and make a beeline for them. Do not to join or avoid any queue mindlessly (because it's short or long)
Large and well-known companies will naturally attract the largest crowds; hence it may be wise to target smaller companies
If you are unfortunate enough to land up in a long line then take the time to review/ refresh the facts about the company you have researched. Devise a strategy on how you are going to sell yourself in 30 seconds. If nothing else, it will give you the confidence to face the interview
Another sensible thing you can do while waiting is to network with other job seekers. This way you can exchange ideas, get a few leads or at least while away time more pleasantly!
If crowds give you the heebie-jeebies, you could just pick up the brochure/literature of the company you are interested in from the counter. Scan through it before you decide which recruiter to meet
Avoid peak times (noon to 4 pm) if possible because the crowds can be intimidating then
Remember this is no time to be shy. Whether you manage to get a job or not, try not to leave the fair without speaking to several recruiters for the experience and file it away for further use later.
PADMA RAMESH
Padma.hyd@cnkonline.com
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