The BIGGEST WINNER!

Your challenge is to make an all-out effort to get the most information in a short time. Preparation is the key to WINNING. Jobapalooza offers three different opportunities for young adults 15-21 years old. Representatives will be available to kelp you with Community Resources, Career Training, and a Job! Prepare ahead of time to be the BIGGEST WINNER!

Before the Event

1. Think about your strong points, your goals, what you like doing, what your most relevant skills are and what you're looking for in a first job. To help you get started prepare a Personal Information Work Sheet.
    
2. Log into www.IllinoisworkNet.com and take an interest survey to help you determine the best career for you and the kind of training you will need.
    

Day of the Event

1. Dress the same as you would for a job interview. You want to present the best image possible -baggy jeans, sweatshirts, and backpacks won't cut it. Avoid excessive jewelry and perfume. You will only have a few minutes to make an impression as a job candidate. Positive first impressions are critical. Dress to impress employers and WIN a prize or gift card!
    
2. Arrive early and map out your strategy. Who will you talk with first? Keep an open mind and increase your opportunities for success.
    
3. Introduce yourself to the representatives in a positive and confident manner; offer a firm handshake. Include your name, your school, degree, major and the year you are graduating (or graduated).
    
4. Tell the representative about your goals. For example:
   • discuss a particular career or job with that organization
   • ask about scholarships
   • discussing internships or summer job opportunities
   • ask about job search assistance; or public assistance for you and your family such as food stamps and healthcare; financial assistance for shelter, help with childcare, etc.
   
   
5. Make sure you obtain each representative's name, title, address, and phone number so you can follow up with them. Collect literature and business cards whenever possible and determine how you should follow up with the representative.
    
6. Check out all the booths, talk to the representatives, and find out what is available to help you reach your goals.

After the Event

1. If you are seeking a job, you should make it a point to follow up with a letter expressing your interest in the company and in what they have to offer. Thank you / follow up letters should be received by the employer within 2-5 days after an event. E-mailing the letter shows you know how to use technology for business purposes. Make sure you use proper spelling and grammar. No txt msg here! Signup for a free e-mail that has your name in it. Save funny and cute e-mail addresses for your friends.
2. If you are seeking training, take time to go over the literature and talk with your school counselor about training after high school graduation. For those of you, who have graduated or are out of school, attend an Information Session at the Job Center to see if you are eligible for funding dollars and/or talk to a college career counselor. Visit some schools that interest you.

Follow these guidelines and YOU will be the BIGGEST WINNER!