If you're looking for work, you might want to head to Hartford on Monday, where dozens of companies converge for Hartford Hires.
Last month, the state unemployment rate reached 9 percent, the highest since 1976.
The job fair at the Hartford Hilton Hotel, 315 Trumbull St,. begins at 11 a.m. and continues to 2 p.m.
Before attending a job fair, review the list of employers, determine which interest you the most and go there first, the state Department of Labor recommends.
Broaden your focus to include many types of employers.
While you might not have considered working for a hospital, many hospitals recruit and hire professionals in different fields such as management and information systems, according to the Department of Labor.
Bring plenty of copies of your résumé and a folder or portfolio to hold all your materials. Have a writing utensil and paper available to take notes.
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Be prepared with a brief introductory sentence for each employer. Tell them the type of position and career path you wish to follow.
Be aware of time demands on employers and do not monopolize an employer's time. Ask specific questions about the organization and career opportunities and offer to follow up after the fair.
Ask for employers' business cards for follow up discussions and correspondence.
If you cannot make it to the job fair today, there are at least two more job fairs this month.
On April 26, a manufacturing and engineering resource and employment expo will be held at Goodwin College, in East Hartford, from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
On April 29, the Urban League holds its 10th Annual Career Fair at Rentschler Field, in East Hartford, from 10 a.m. to 3 pm
There will be another Hartford Hires job fair on Monday, June 14, also at the Hartford Hilton Hotel.
