Observations of the Post and Courier Career Expo

Last week I attended the Post and Courier Career Expo.  At the Career Expo, there were about twenty tables set up with different employers set up at each one.  The employers that I noted were: Bankers Life and Casualty Company, Virginia College, ARS Rescue Rooter, Detyens Shipyard, ITT Technical Institute, LifeCareers Career Management, Verizon, Allied Burton Security Services, Charleston County School District, and Aflac.   

During down time, I went up to representatives to let them know my purpose was to gather information, rather than seeking employment.  They were all very respectful and willing to answer any questions that I had.  From speaking with them, I generally learned that they were looking for individuals that seemed to be well kept, and nicely dressed.  There were some individuals at the Career Expo that were dressed in what I thought to be a little too casual clothing.  The representatives generally agreed that they expect individuals to come dressed professionally for the most part, although most stated it depending on the employment they were seeking.  In general, most thought it would be acceptable to be overdressed.  In general, most of the representatives said that they pay attention to the job seekers people skills.  Important things mentioned were a firm handshake, appropriate eye contact, and appropriate use of English language.