Beacon Community Services (BCS), Work Link and GT Hiring Solutions are teaming up to offer a job fair next week at the SHOAL Centre in Sidney.
“The job fair is open to anyone who is interested in finding out more about employment opportunities in and around the Saanich Peninsula and Victoria,” said Denise Smith, an employment counsellor at BCS.
“This is a great way for people to break into what we call the hidden job market. Many employers aren’t using traditional methods of advertising jobs. Events like the job fair are a great way to see what employment opportunities are out there and they also offer the opportunity for networking and communication,” said Smith.
The fair will feature 13 employers from around the region including the Vancouver Island Health Authority, Peninsula Co-op, Slegg Lumber, Epicure Selections, Serenity Home Care and Mount Washington. Smith said if an attendee isn’t interested in working for a specific employer at the fair, the event offers networking and other opportunities.
“This is a great opportunity for younger people like high school graduates looking for that first job or even for those who are already employed who might be looking to transfer into something different,” said Smith.
She said people should come prepared with a resume and a 10-second verbal resume — a quick and condensed overview of themselves and their skill set.
“And as always, dress appropriately,” she reminded. “Visual impressions are key.”
The job fair happens Thursday, Sept. 19 at the SHOAL Centre in Sidney (10030 Resthaven Dr.) and runs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Those interested in finding out more about the hidden job market and other employment opportunities can also attend one of BCS’ free workshops. Visit www.beaconcs.ca or call 250-656-0134 for workshop schedules.