Second Chance Career and Resource Fair Preparation

Employment
Written By McKenzie Ring

never Been to a Second Chance Career and Resource Fair?
Here’s How to Prepare Yourself:

1. Prepare your resume with relevant experience, skills, and certifications. Print multiple copies!
Don’t forget about any transferable skills you gained or jobs you held while incarceration!

2. Practice your “personal statement” or elevator pitch. Have a brief introduction of yourself memorized that highlighting your strengths, experiences and goals.

Example: "Hi, my name is [Your Name]. I have experience in [specific skills/fields], and I’m eager to bring my dedication and adaptability to [industry or type of job]. I’m excited to learn more about opportunities with your organization."

3. Prepare to address your background. ALL employers and resource providers at this career fair have been vetted by RISE and are excited and committed to hire! Be honest, concise (no need for details), and positive about your past if it comes up. Focus on what you’ve learned, how you’ve grown, and your commitment to moving forward.

4. Dress professionally. Wear clean, professional attire that makes you feel good and offers up a good first impression. We recommend business casual.

5. Bring some necessities. Again, copies of your resume, pen, notebook, references you might want to share.

McKenzie Ring

McKenzie Ring has over 20 years of experience helping businesses and organizations reach maximum audiences for growth. Specializing in social responsibility, digital marketing, photography, and content creation, McKenzie uses that experience to educate the public and grow a network of volunteers, donors, employers, and support for people returning to the community after incarceration.

Specializing and trained in documentary-based work, McKenzie has been an award-winning Midwest photographer and content creator for much of her professional life. She is passionate about bridging unlikely communities and building empathy through storytelling.

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