During his address at NETWORK in Chicago this past November, 2024 ASA President Patrick Maloney (Coburn Supply) spoke about the need for a comprehensive recruitment strategy.

Maloney spoke about his recent visits to local colleges to speak about the industry and opportunities at his company. He said that both schools and students were eager to hear from him and this opportunity exists for all ASA members.

It may be surprising to hear about the emphasis on a face-to-face recruitment approach given the proliferation of online tools for both employers and prospective employees.

While digital methods such as websites, social media and search engine optimization remain critically important for both companies and job seekers, there are benefits of face-to-face interactions that cannot be matched online. This is particularly true given the current challenges of attracting and retaining top talent.

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Here are examples of why job fairs should be included in a company’s recruitment strategy.

Direct access to qualified candidates

One of the advantages of attending job fairs is the direct access they provide to a diverse pool of candidates. Unlike online applications where recruiters sift through many resumes, job fairs allow companies to interact with individuals who have chosen to attend the event.

Personal contact in a digital world

Meeting candidates in person allows recruiters to assess qualities such as communication skills, cultural fit or other traits that are difficult to evaluate through resumes or virtual interviews.

Increasing company and industry brand awareness

As we know, the PHCP/PVF industry suffers from lack of awareness or misperceptions among job seekers. Job fairs are an excellent opportunity for ASA members to enhance their employer brand. By participating in these events, businesses can showcase their values, mission, and culture to a broader audience.

Efficient hiring process

ob fairs streamline the hiring process by bringing candidates and recruiters together in one location, allowing for on-the-spot interviews and initial assessments.

Expand recruitment opportunities

Job fairs provide networking opportunities beyond direct recruitment. Companies can connect with high school guidance counselors, trade-school, community college and university career centers.

Get market insights

By interacting with candidates and observing other companies, companies can gain greater insights into what job seekers are looking for in employers.

Attracting future talent

Not all job fair attendees are ready to commit to a job immediately. Many, especially students or early-career professionals, attend these events to explore their options and learn about potential employers.

ASA makes attending job fairs easy with resources to support members

Within the ASA Recruiter Toolbox, members have access to several tools to assist them with career fairs or presentation opportunities.

1. Find local job fairs, trade schools, community colleges or CDL training programs using this easy-to-use resource.
2. Research-tested talking points about opportunities in the industry that effectively resonate with students and recent graduates.
3. A pre-designed brochure that explains the PHCP/PVF industry with the ability to include the ASA member’s logo and contact information. Directions for a local printer are also included in the Toolbox.
4. A PowerPoint presentation about the industry members can be used if speaking to groups of students or grads and the ability to customize using the member’s information.
5. Customizable templates for job fair standup banners to assist with industry and member branding.

To access the Recruiter Toolbox, go to ASA.net and click on Recruiter Toolbox under the Education menu. A valid ASA member login is required.

Project Talent is one of four mega goals included in the association’s strategic plan. This goal includes the objective of developing and implementing a program to attract and grow the number of talented workers taking advantage of fulfilling career opportunities in the PHCP/PVF Industry.