Finding the right employer at a job fair event is a lot like speed dating. The goal is to identify and instantly connect with employment opportunities that potentially lead to working relationships where you feel heard, valued, and appreciated. The foundation to any good relationship!

Don’t go into these brief encounters unprepared. Take a few moments beforehand to identify how companies measure up your core values and career interests in order to maximize your employment match opportunity. Ask yourself...

What’s the Company Mission? this brief statement highlights the aims and values of the organization. Give is a careful read and make sure your career goals and values are aligned with their mission.

What’s the Company Up To? do a quick google search on each company and look around for any hot topic issues or industry news that could influence your employment decision. Find out if the company’s financially solvent, community orientated, and/or environmentally responsible. Make sure the organizations recent activities and behaviors are in line with your core principles and beliefs.

What’s the Company Culture? get the inside scoop on what employees, former employees, and managers have to say about their work life experience at each company you’re considering. Glassdoor and social media sites like Facebook and Twitter are all reliable platforms that offer a good perspective on company’s culture.

Remember, relationships work better when both sides have something of mutual value to bring to the table. Check out “The Ultimate Guide To Researching A Company Pre-Interview” for more information.