Corridor Career Fair attracts job seekers

A long line snaked throughout the 2010 Corridor Career Fair at the Gould Recreation Center at Kirkwood Community College on Saturday as resumes faced the unrelenting pens of a small army of experts.

'Most people are concerned with getting resumes noticed and to stand out,' said Richard Grugin, a work force consultant with Kirkwood's Skill To Employment program.

Grugin said for today's job search, people should get away from general terms and use specifics when backing up their skills.

'Tailor your resume to the position. Use words they use in the job description,' Grugin said.

Human resources managers filled dozens of booths at Kirkwood, including some from Eastern Iowa's largest companies.

Those responsible for finding the best available workers said some elements never go out of style.

'I really like when candidates can tell me, 'here are my skills, here are my talents' and what they would like to do and how it affects the position with their company,' said Sally Brause of Great-America Leasing in Cedar Rapids.

Brause also said potential workers can leave behind a solid impression by 'asking good questions' and showing they have prepared to meet with company representatives.

Above all, make sure what you write checks out, Grugin said.

'Toot your horn but make sure it can be validated,' he said.

-Chris Earl, KCRG-TV9