"WANTED!" Job Fair 2017

The 2017 “WANTED!” job fair is now history. On November 29, 2017, the HSZG Career Service once again welcomed 27 companies and organizations from near and far as exhibitors. As in previous years, there were some “repeat exhibitors,” but also newcomers at the fair. In addition, the organizers put together an interesting package of complementary activities, ranging from free headshots and resume reviews to workshops. This included the keynote presentation “Nonverbal Intelligence When Starting Your Career” by Robert Körner. Shortly before a job interview, for example, the Diplom psychologist recommends “power posing” to motivate yourself for the upcoming conversation. So you quickly slip into the role of Superman or Wonder Woman and use that to build your courage for what is likely to be an uncomfortable situation. Anyone who’s tried it will find that it can definitely help. And it’s certainly good compared to imagining the person across from you naked, as some self-help guides for such situations sometimes recommend.

But the exhibitors also had exciting things to offer in addition to their internships, part-time student jobs, final dissertations, and regular jobs. For example, at the Birkenstock GmbH & Co. KG Services booth, you could make your own bracelet. Using a device that is operated entirely by hand at the company, after selecting the right strap color, you could punch a rivet into the leather to attach a snap fastener. Because, as the saying goes: “If you want something done right, do it yourself.” Birkenstock thus offered a first practical glimpse into the company’s day-to-day operations.

Refreshments were also well taken care of. After a short scavenger hunt through the exhibition grounds, visitors could pick up a freshly prepared burger—courtesy of Zittau’s local hero, Mister Bales—at no cost. Numerous visitors took advantage of this offer and enjoyed a classic cheeseburger or, alternatively, a veggie burger with grilled cheese.

We would like to thank everyone involved who contributed to the success of this year’s “WANTED!” and hope that the event has led—or will lead—to promising future contacts. As the first deputy mayor of Zittau, Thomas Krusekopf, said in his opening remarks: “There’s a lot to discover in and around Zittau.” And in addition to the many sights, this also includes potential employees on the one hand and potential employers on the other.