University of Phoenix - Richmond Hosts Career Expo to Give Job Hunters the Edge

The following is a release from the University of Phoenix Richmond.

WHAT: Understanding the challenges still faced by job seekers in the current economy, University of Phoenix - Richmond is hosting another career expo to connect job seekers with employers.

"We had such an overwhelming response from our previous Career Expos, we've decided to host another to help locals connect with solid employers," said Gregg Crowe University of Phoenix - Richmond campus director. "We're thrilled to help people improve their situation."

WHEN: Thursday, August 12 from 10a.m. - 4p.m.

WHO: Companies expected to participate in the career expo include: § Piedmont Geriatric Hospital § Riverside Health Systems § Rolls Royce § U.S. Secret Service § MetLife Insurance § AXA Equitable § Wachovia Bank § SunTrust Bank § M&T Bank § Henrico Police Department § Hanover Police Department § Target § Cracker Barrel § Clearwire § Boddie Noell Enterprises § VACO Staffing § Office Team Staffing § Intercept Youth Services § Liberty Mutual § GEICO § Farmers Insurance § Goodwill § Drive Time § Huntington Learning Center § Exclusive Staffing

WHERE: University of Phoenix - Richmond

6600 W. Broad Street, EH-A101 Richmond, VA 23230 (Off I-64 West & Broad Street US 250)

RSVP & INFO: To register, please visit http://uopxrichmondcareerfair.eventbrite.com/ or call 804-281-3900.

VISUALS: Interviews will be available with faculty members and employers. Faculty members will be available to discuss topics such as dressing for success and what local employers are looking for in employees. Job seekers can speak to the current state of the job market and personal experiences looking for employment opportunities. Employers will be available to speak about the jobs they are hoping to fill and what they are seeking in terms of applicants.

Media Note - Space will be available for on-site interviews.

ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY: University of Phoenix is constantly innovating to help students balance education and life in a rapidly changing world. Through flexible schedules, challenging courses and interactive learning, students achieve personal and career aspirations without putting their lives on hold. As of May 31, 2010, 476,500 students were enrolled at University of Phoenix, the largest private university in North America. University of Phoenix serves a diverse student population, offering associate's, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degree programs from campuses and learning centers across the U.S. as well as online throughout the world.

TIPS FOR MAKING THE MOST OF YOUR CAREER EXPO EXPERIENCE

1. Don't be shy - During a career expo, your job is to demonstrate self-confidence. Be assertive. Look the employers in the eye, speak with authority and always give a firm handshake.

2. Be organized - Have a copy of your resume in your hand when you meet an employer and make sure your documents are grammatically correct and easy to read. Resume consultants will be on-site to give you tips and suggestions on ways to maximize your resume's potential.

3. Know yourself - When you're asked "What type of job are you looking for?" have an answer prepared and always speak to your strengths, areas of experience or interests.

4. Don't underestimate any company - Don't ignore a company based on your limited knowledge or perception of their products, services or opportunities. You owe it to yourself and to potential employers to investigate every opportunity.

5. Ask questions - Show an active interest in the company you are interviewing with and ask intelligent questions such as "Where do you see the company going in the next few years?" or "What are the greatest challenges your industry faces today?"

6. Turn off your cell phone - It's important to respect others by not taking calls in the career expo hall or when you are speaking with an employer. If you need to make or take a call, always step outside the room.

7. Be prepared to sell yourself - Some employers may ask you to "sell yourself" in 30 seconds or less. Always be prepared to do that by effectively articulating your uniqueness and greatness in three or four sentences. Being prepared leaves a lasting impression!

8. On-site company research - If the lines are long, feel free to quietly walk up along the side of the table, take some information and read up on the company while waiting your turn to meet the recruiter.

9. Don't talk salary too soon - Unless the salary ranges are posted, don't get into too much detail regarding salary or pay rates - save that for the more intimate, personal interview session.

10. Next steps - Find out what the next steps are before you leave the interview. Don't forget to take a business card of the recruiter if provided, so you can send a follow-up e-mail to reiterate your interest and thank them for their time.