Get ready for the Hiring Fair!

Explore job opportunities at the upcoming Hiring Fair, hosted by the Career Centre on Friday, April 11, from 12:00pm to 3:30pm at the Royal Canadian Legion – Branch 49, 146 Hirst Avenue W, Parksville. We are planning for 30+ employers this year, providing a unique opportunity for job seekers to engage directly with businesses actively hiring. Stay tuned and keep checking back for additions to the list of employers attending in 2025!

To maximize your success at the job fair and in your job search overall, consider the following steps:

Step 1: Participate in a Preparing for the Hiring Fair workshop. Acquire networking strategies to ensure success during face-to-face interactions with employers. Gain insights into necessary preparations before, during, and after the Hiring Fair.

Step 2: Dress professionally for success, as you would to attend a job interview. If you require interview attire, schedule an appointment with an employment consultant at the Career Centre for assistance.

Step 3: Research the list of registered employers beforehand. Get a competitive edge by researching businesses of interest, understanding their work culture and values. Prepare a set of questions to engage employers during the Hiring Fair.

Step 4: Bring multiple copies of your resume. Organize a folder with a list of target employers, several copies of your resume, cover letters (specifically addressed to certain employers), and letters of reference if available. Be ready to distribute extra resumes to employers not initially on your list. If you need assistance creating or updating your resumes, be sure to attend the Career Centre’s Resumes and Cover Letters Workshop prior to the Hiring Fair.

Step 5: Prepare for impromptu interviews. Craft a one-minute “presentation statement” highlighting your qualifications to effectively market yourself to potential employers. Attend workshops such as Branding “YOU” and Acing the Interview for additional insights.

Step 6: Network actively. Practice a polished greeting with eye contact to make a positive first impression. The Hiring Fair provides a valuable opportunity to connect with employers and fellow job seekers who can contribute to advancing your career.

Step 7: Collect contact information. Record the names and contact details of individuals and companies of interest or ask for business cards to facilitate follow-up.

Step 8: Send thank-you notes. Stay ahead of the competition by sending thank-you notes or emails to your preferred employers the following day. Ensure professionalism in your communication, avoiding jargon, abbreviations, or spelling mistakes.

The Career Centre’s Hiring Fair is a complimentary event for job seekers to engage with local employers. For details on upcoming workshops or to register, please call 250.248.3205.

We eagerly anticipate your presence on April 11 at the Hiring Fair from 12:00pm to 3:30pm!

 

Tell us about your business/organization and what makes you stand out as an employer?

• BGC Central Vancouver Island provides experiential learning environments that inspire children, youth, and families to acquire and develop the critical cognitive, emotional, and social skills needed to become resilient and contributing members of society!
• We stand out as an employer as we welcome everyone in a safe, accepting environment based on belonging and positive relationships, we ensure that everyone—children, youth, families, volunteers, staff—is heard, valued, and treated fairly, and that we encourage and support every child and youth to play, learn, and grow to achieve their dreams.

How many employees do you have?

• Roughly 155 companywide, 16 in Parksville.

What do you look for in a new employee?

• We look for individuals that enjoy teaching lessons and activities, support nurturing environments for children, and have a passion for building meaningful relationships with the children and families in our care.

What advice would you give someone who wants to work for your organization?

• Having a background in childcare is great, may it be formal work or babysitting! First aid is recommended as staff are required to be first aid trained if alone with children. Having experience or examples of problem-solving or dealing with difficult emotions is also good.

Do you anticipate hiring in the next 6 months? If so, for what types of positions?

• We do! For these positions:
  • Program Leaders (working with 6-12 year olds)
  • Early Childhood Educators – Infant Toddler Certified (ECE – IT) (Working with 0-3 year olds)

What is the best way for someone to apply if they are interested in working for your organization?

• They are welcome to visit our careers page at https://www.bgccvi.com/careers/ or to send an e-mail to HR at careers@bgccvi.com with their Resume and Cover Letter

Here is your JAM Update for April 9th and it’s full of information! We’re hiring a Client Services Assistant, receive FREE WHMIS training if you are a youth, and so many more opportunities available to you!

Did you know we are hiring? We are seeking an Employment Consultant that is just the right fit! Learn more about this and many other opportunities for employment in your JAM update for November 6th, 2023!