Big Companies Scouting for Talent at BC Job Fair

Recruiters from over 60 major employers including Costco, EvergreenHealth, Robert Half, Wells Fargo Bank, U.S. Bank and Starbucks will descend on Bellevue College for its Networking & Job Fair May 16, looking to fill open positions. The free event, which runs from 10 a.m. – 1:30 p.m., is open to the public.

Sponsored by the college’s Center for Career Connections, the goal is to match job seekers with community employers in a format that encourages personal interaction, which is often critical to landing a position. A recent article published on Payscale.com, How Many Jobs Are Found Through Networking Really, revealed that experts estimate “upward of 85 percent of open positions are filled through networking,” and that “70 percent, if not 80 percent, of jobs are not published.”

“We’re very excited to host so many employers on campus,” said Fabienne Mouton, associate director of corporate outreach at the Center. “It’s a great opportunity to build relationships and practice interview skills in a more relaxed setting. A lot of people find it a bit intimidating to approach a potential employer the first time. But after you’ve talked with a few employers, it dials down the ‘nerves’ factor and makes it easier for employers and prospective employees to get to know each other authentically.”

Employers will also be scouting for summer interns, and students are strongly encouraged to attend.

“Career fairs encourage you to be open to new ideas,” added Mouton. “It might even spark an interest in a field you never considered.”

And if you’re looking to update your headshot for a more professional look, freelance photographer Leila Saghafi will be on hand starting at 11 a.m. offering free digital headshots to participants.

The Center for Career Connections at Bellevue College helps enrolled students, alumni, and the Bellevue community with free job hunting and career planning services. This includes personal branding and social media for job hunting, resume and interviewing strategies, work-study assistance and internships. The Center also helps local employers find talent to fill open positions. To learn more, visit their website at bellevuecollege.edu/careers.

To learn more about the Networking & Job Fair and see the complete list of employers, visit bellevuecollege.edu/careers/students.

Register online for the event and watch a video of the most recent Bellevue College Networking & Job Fair.