Pennsylvania Career Fairs

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that ten out of 20 of the fastest growing careers are healthcare related. They are predicting that up until 2018, the Healthcare industry is expected to generate 3.2 million new wage and salary jobs.

This is more than any other industry and is in part due to the rapid growth in the elderly population. Healthcare careers range from Home Healthcare aides and Skin Care Specialist requiring relatively little training to Physicians' Assistants and Bio Chemists.

Pennsylvania job seekers interested in Healthcare careers should consider two career fairs.

Philadelphia Healthcare Career Fair
February 16, 2011 from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM
Sheraton Suites located at 4101 Island Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19153
Job seekers are able to register before the event

Pittsburgh Diversity Employment and Career Education Expo
March 15, 2011 from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM
Consol Energy Center located at 1001Fifth Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15219
Job seekers are able to register before the event

King of Prussia Career Fair
Monday, March 21, 2011 from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM
Crowne Plaza Hotel Valley Forge located at 260 Mall Blvd, King of Prussia, PA 19406
Job seekers are able to register before the event

Some job search tips for job seekers at the career fair:

1. Register ahead of time and bring copies of resumes. However, because of federal guidelines about who a company actually considers an applicant, do not be offended if an employer asks you to submit a job application online on their website.

2. Manage your time at the career fair. Although a career fair, may be scheduled from 10a to 3p, I can tell you first hand that employers may begin to pack up from around 2:15p depending on traffic flow. Make sure to see the companies on your preferred list first and do not monopolize the recruiters' time. Know when to when to step aside.

3. Prepare good questions for recruiters at the career fair. Good questions will demonstrate that you have done the company research. Job seekers can ask questions about specific job openings, the industry or the company.
4. Ask about how to follow up with the company or the recruiter after the career fair

5. The appropriate attire for career fairs is business professional dress. For both men and women this means a business suit. Do not overlook clean and appropriate accessories.

6. Bring business cards, pen and a pad for making notes on conversations you have with recruiters. A leather or faux leather portfolio is a good idea.

Resources
Seven Deadly Sins of Resume Writing
50 Hot Resume Writing Tips