
Sign up to save your podcasts
Or
Transcript↓
Today I attended a job fair for the first time since coming to Canada. It was similar to joint information sessions held in Japan, with various companies’ representatives in human resource departments. I was a bit excited because it had been a long time since I graduated from university in Japan. Upon arrival, I was surprised to see a crowded venue with over 150 people waiting in line. Despite Vancouver not being as populated as Tokyo, I was even more taken aback by the number of older individuals in their 40s and 50s present. This realization that everyone was struggling to find employment gave me some comfort.
Fifty percent of the exhibitors were hiring companies, while the remaining half consisted of organizations, schools, loan companies, etc. that support international students and immigrants in their job search efforts in Canada. Half of the hiring companies were in the physical labour field, such as construction, warehouse operations, and security services. Due to my lack of confidence in my physical abilities, I chose to focus on the other exhibitors. I was particularly interested in the customer care departments of drugstores, supermarkets, hotels, and rail companies. I was informed during my research that there may be a possibility of on-the-spot group interviews, but I only handed in one resume and no interview. Most companies only had a QR code on their desk, with someone explaining the position and suggesting that I apply online. This left me feeling a bit disappointed.
From the moment I entered the venue, I knew that success would require excellent communication skills and a strong elevator pitch. I spent considerable time observing others and their interactions with recruiters, which was quite enlightening. Overall, the job fair was a great experience, and I am glad I had the chance to attend it. I realized that would be suitable for people without prior experience and fully confident to communicate with a person in English. I believe that I am better suited to apply for jobs on Indeed or other online platforms and prepare for interviews. With this in mind, I plan to start working hard again tomorrow.
Transcript↓
Today I attended a job fair for the first time since coming to Canada. It was similar to joint information sessions held in Japan, with various companies’ representatives in human resource departments. I was a bit excited because it had been a long time since I graduated from university in Japan. Upon arrival, I was surprised to see a crowded venue with over 150 people waiting in line. Despite Vancouver not being as populated as Tokyo, I was even more taken aback by the number of older individuals in their 40s and 50s present. This realization that everyone was struggling to find employment gave me some comfort.
Fifty percent of the exhibitors were hiring companies, while the remaining half consisted of organizations, schools, loan companies, etc. that support international students and immigrants in their job search efforts in Canada. Half of the hiring companies were in the physical labour field, such as construction, warehouse operations, and security services. Due to my lack of confidence in my physical abilities, I chose to focus on the other exhibitors. I was particularly interested in the customer care departments of drugstores, supermarkets, hotels, and rail companies. I was informed during my research that there may be a possibility of on-the-spot group interviews, but I only handed in one resume and no interview. Most companies only had a QR code on their desk, with someone explaining the position and suggesting that I apply online. This left me feeling a bit disappointed.
From the moment I entered the venue, I knew that success would require excellent communication skills and a strong elevator pitch. I spent considerable time observing others and their interactions with recruiters, which was quite enlightening. Overall, the job fair was a great experience, and I am glad I had the chance to attend it. I realized that would be suitable for people without prior experience and fully confident to communicate with a person in English. I believe that I am better suited to apply for jobs on Indeed or other online platforms and prepare for interviews. With this in mind, I plan to start working hard again tomorrow.