Career Day is coming to Bakersfield College on Wednesday, April 29 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Campus Center.

Over a hundred employers will be here to recruit people for job openings and to let people know what careers are available within their company. Bolthouse, Kern Medical Center and Apple Inc. just to name a few.

“Career Day is geared toward BC students and alumni, but it is open to the public,” said Denise Crawford, Job Development Specialist for the Workability program at BC.

Not very many people will be hired that day but it is a great opportunity to network, and since most jobs are obtained through networking, this is the ideal chance to meet these people and make those contacts.

To prepare students for what the employers will expect in prospective employees, Job Placement and Workability have organized two workshops, to be held Wednesday, Apr. 22 from 3:30 -5:00 p.m. in SS151 and again on Monday, Apr. 27 at 1:00-2:30 p.m. in SS151 as well.

In the workshops, students will learn what it is that employers are looking for and what they are not looking for.

For instance, Crawford said that the number one problem the employers have is people who do not come dressed to find work.

“Some people show up in pajama bottoms,” said Crawford.

Crawford gave some tips on what will be discussed in the workshops.

Dressing as if you will be interviewed on the spot, avoiding clothing that is too revealing, such as halter-tops, miniskirts and shorts. Try not to dress too casual. Avoid wearing denim. You only make a first impression once, so dress to impress.

Greeting an employer by making eye contact, shaking hands and introducing yourself in a clear voice will make a good impression on them, and it also helps to have a good attitude. Don’t badmouth your current or former employer. Don’t talk too much and keep your personal life personal. Stick to the basics: Your name, what job you are interested in and how you qualify for that job. Present your resume; tell them why you want to work with them. Show enthusiasm and don’t be afraid to ask questions.

Don’t talk or text on your cell phone when approaching an employer, and don’t be rude in any way to anyone.

A job fair is not a group activity, it is just between you and the employer, and it’s not a good idea to bring kids either.

It is a good idea, however, to know a little about the employer and about the positions they have available before you talk to them, and bring several copies of your resume just in case there is a position you are qualified for.

Don’t just take the free stuff, talk to the employer. If you are not interested in that employer, move on to the next one. But if you are interested, don’t forget to put your best foot forward and introduce yourself. Get their business card and follow up with them.

There will be a list of employers at the front, so you will have an idea of what is out there and you can create a game plan of which booths you want to visit.

Showing up early, not waiting until the last minute will tell employers you are serious about finding a job.

Also, you might not want to ask when your first raise or vacation will be.

Career Day is presented by BC Job Placement and Workability and sponsored by Kern County Broadcaster’s Association

“Employers like to come to Career Day because of the great service we provide,” said Rudy Gutierrez, Job Development Specialist for the Workability program, and the person in charge of hiring students to work on Career Day.

Don’t forget to attend a Career Day Workshop, bring several copies of your resume and dress your best.