Employment candidates were able to showcase their skills to businesses looking to recruit at the first Reverse Jobs and Careers Fair held by Staffordshire County Council.
The event, organised by the council’s Staffordshire Jobs and Careers Service, aimed to match people seeking work with employers based on the needs of both candidates and businesses.
Held at independent business Alberts Café in Stafford’s Victoria Park, the fair focused on networking and conversations that could lead to employment opportunities. Each candidate was selected by the jobs and careers service team, which invited employers interested in their skillsets.
Businesses attending included Rugeley-based Techcare, which provides website, video production and digital service support, and salad production company Florette UK, based in Lichfield.
Service delivery manager at Techcare, Lewis Lydiard, said: “It’s really interesting to hear the candidates telling their story and giving their experiences. I’ve had some really good conversations.
“It has been eye opening to speak to all these people about their journey with finding a job in the industry. I was recently put in touch with the Staffordshire Jobs and Careers Service and just really like the initiative and what the team is doing. I’m going to explore more options about working more closely with them.”
Will Kaye, recruitment officer from Florette UK, said: “The Reverse Jobs and Careers Fair was a unique change and created a comfortable casual environment to discuss roles, careers, and provide advice to proactive job seekers.
“It was a great event and well worth attending – we will be sure to attend future events as it flips the narrative towards a much more personal discussion that is more fruitful to both employer and job seeker.”
One candidate said: “I thought the event was fantastic. It was nice to be in front of recruiters and talk to them about my experience. I’ve connected with two businesses on LinkedIn. We talked about a possible future in HR and I was told my communication skills and personality would be great for it.”
Martin Murray, Staffordshire County Council’s deputy leader and cabinet member for economy and skills, said: “Our jobs and careers service is doing an important job for potential employees and businesses in Staffordshire – matching people’s skills with suitable opportunities.
“This first Reverse Jobs and Careers Fair has enabled people to showcase their skills to local businesses, building connections and giving them experience and confidence. Businesses taking part have said how beneficial they found the event too.
“The service can now build on this and provide more people with openings to jobs and training in the future.”
Representatives from the county council’s work placement programme Open Door were also in attendance, offering advice on employability and skills development.
