Are you preparing to attend an oil and gas hiring event?
These events are excellent opportunities to network with professionals, learn about new companies and job openings, and potentially land your dream job.
Depending on the job you are looking for oil and gas industry can be pretty competitive, but with the right approach, you can stand out from the crowd and make a lasting impression.
To help you succeed, we are going to share with you some tips to keep in mind but first let’s take a quick look at some ways for finding local oil and gas hiring events.
How to Find Local Oil and Gas Hiring Events?
1. Industry associations
Many industry associations, such as APEGA, ICOTA, or the Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE), organize and promote hiring events for their members. Check their websites and social media channels for information on upcoming events.
2. Professional networking platforms
LinkedIn is an excellent platform for discovering industry-specific events, including hiring events. In addition to searching for events in the oil and gas sector, you can also follow industry groups, companies, and relevant hashtags to stay informed about upcoming opportunities.
3. Company websites
If there are specific companies you would like to work for, regularly check their websites and social media profiles for announcements about hiring events they may be attending or hosting.
Related: 6 Oil and Gas Cover Letter Examples for Fresh Graduates
4. Job search websites
Many job search websites, like Indeed or Glassdoor, promote various hiring events so to stay up to date set up alerts using keywords relevant to your desired job and receive notifications about upcoming events.
5. College and university websites
If you are a student or recent graduate, your college or university may have information on oil and gas hiring events. Look for the career services or alumni resources sections on their websites.
6. Local chambers of commerce
Local chambers of commerce often host or promote events designed to connect professionals and job seekers with employers. Visit their websites and sign up for newsletters to receive information on upcoming oil and gas hiring events in your area.
7. Social media
Follow companies, industry professionals, and hashtags related to the oil and gas sector on social media platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. This will keep you updated on news, trends, and potential hiring events.
8. Online event platforms
Eventbrite and Meetup are popular platforms for discovering various events in your area, including hiring events for the oil and gas industry. Sign up and create personalized search preferences to receive alerts about upcoming hiring events.
9. Industry conferences and expos
Oil and gas industry conferences and trade expos often have a career or hiring component. Research upcoming industry events in your region and review their agendas for any hiring events or job fairs.
10. Personal networking
Expand your professional network by reaching out to current and former colleagues, friends, or acquaintances. Many people may be aware of upcoming events that they can share with you.
Related: 30 Short Examples of Oil and Gas Resume Objectives
Tips for Going to Oil and Gas Hiring Events
1. Do your research
Before attending the event, research the participating companies, their values, key projects, and job openings. This will give you an idea of which companies to target and help you tailor your approach.
Also, make notes of any recent news or announcements made by these companies, as this knowledge might be useful during your conversations with company representatives.
2. Update your resume
Ensure your resume is up to date and has all your relevant experience that might be related to the job you are trying to get. Consider preparing more than one version of your resume to target different job positions or companies you may encounter at the event.
3. Dress to impress
Dress professionally and appropriately for the event. For men, this might mean a suit, while women could go for a professional dress.
4. Bring multiple copies of your resume
Be prepared to hand out your resume to employers and industry professionals you meet at the event. Consider bringing at least 20 – 30 copies of your resume, as well as a digital version in case an employer requests it.
5. Prepare your elevator pitch
Have a 30-second introduction prepared that highlights your skills, experience, and goals.
Practice your pitch beforehand and be prepared to tailor it to specific companies or job openings.
6. Arrive early
Arrive at the hiring event early to maximize your time by networking with as many professionals and companies as possible. This will also give you a chance to survey the layout of the event and identify the booths or employers you would like to prioritize.
Related: Working In the Oilfield | Requirements, Entry Level Jobs and Work Conditions
7. Network with industry professionals
Use this event as an opportunity to network and make connections in the industry. Develop relationships with individuals at all levels from entry positions to management.
8. Be approachable and positive
Smile, make eye contact, and be friendly. A positive attitude will make employers and professionals more likely to want to connect with you.
Be sure to maintain open body language, such as avoiding crossing your arms or looking away, because this can make you appear uninterested or distant.
9. Ask good questions
When engaging with professionals and employers, ask thoughtful questions that show your knowledge of the industry and interest in their operations.
For example, ask about their latest projects or the challenges they face. This will help you stand out and showcase your value.
10. Be prepared for impromptu interviews
Hiring events often lead to on-the-spot interviews, so be prepared to answer common interview questions and discuss specifics about your experience.
11. Collect business cards
As you meet professionals and employers, collect business cards to keep track of who you’ve met and to use for follow-up conversations. By gathering and organizing these contacts, you can create a valuable database for your job search.
You can also use these business cards to add the people you meet to your LinkedIn network.
12. Take notes
After speaking with professionals and employers, make notes about your conversation to help you remember key details for follow-up conversations.
Jot down information such as specific points of interest, potential job openings, or even personal information that may help develop a rapport during future meetings.
13. Follow up after the event
Within 24 to 48 hours, reach out to the professionals and employers you met, thanking them for their time and expressing your continued interest in their company.
This follow-up can make a lasting impression and could lead to job opportunities down the road. Reference key points from your conversation, reinforcing the connection you made during the event.
14. Reflect and learn from the experience
After the event, take the time to reflect on your experience, what worked well, and areas for improvement. Use these insights to prepare for future hiring events and networking opportunities.
Consider seeking feedback from friends or mentors on your performance and discuss potential strategies for improvement.