September 2, 2011

September Vancouver events for the un- and underemployed

It’s a little hard to believe that September is here. In two months, it will Halloween and before you know it, the year is over!

Contrary to popular belief, September is actually an awesome month. Sure, it gets darker earlier and it starts to get cold, but at least things start to pick up in September! That’s a good thing if you’re looking for a gig!

So far, I’ve secured a part-time position for fall. I didn’t really envision having a part-time gig (full-time obviously would have been ideal), but I like the company and it’s a challenging and a fun role in PR and marketing, so I’m rolling with the punches here.

My main goal is to get a second part-time gig to supplement my earnings. I’m planning on checking out some job fairs and networking events. September has a lot of them coming up. Here’s the best ones I found:

Freelance Camp, September 10

If you’re underemployed like me, freelancing might be a good option to fill out your free time. Now on its second year, Freelance Camp is an unconference “for independent workers to connect, share knowledge, and become better freelancers”. Possible topics include time management, intellectual property, and setting up a consultancy.

More info: http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/freelancecamp/

Social Media Week, September 19 – 23

If you’re looking to work in any field in marketing communications, knowledge in social media is pretty much a necessity. Why not learn a lil’ sumthin’ sumthin’ by attending some Social Media Week workshops. If you have some spare money (personally, I don’t), you can also attend the parties that the organizers have put together.

Make sure you bring your A game to these events, though. The superstars of Vancouver’s marketing industry are likely to be at these events, so there’s plenty of chance to network and get job leads.

More info: http://socialmediaweek.org/vancouver/

Working Super Fair, September 20

Last year, this event drew in 2,500 candidates! 2,500! I’m not really sure how one stands out in a crowd that big, but this still sounds like an epic event.

The Working Super Fair is not just a job fair, though. The event also features engaging speakers and on-location interview rooms. This is a fair co-presented by The Vancouver Board of Trade, The Vancouver Sun, The Province, Working.com and The Leaders of Tomorrow Mentorship Program.

More info: http://www.boardoftrade.com/events/overview/1952772114.aspx

SFU’s BIG Fair, September 27 – 29

The BIG Fair is SFU’s annual career, grad, and volunteer fair. I was at this fair last year as an employee (I was doing my coop term at SFU Volunteer Services). I’m looking forward to attending this year as a new grad. Some interesting employers and non-profits were in attendance last year, and I have no doubt that there will be lots this year, too.

More info: http://www.sfu.ca/career/events/bigfair.html

Go with me?

Unless I find a second part-time job soon, I’m likely to attend these events. If you are planning on going and are looking for a buddy to go with, why not contact me? Job fairs and networking events are more fun when you don’t go alone. I promise not be clingy — but you promise the same!

Photo: arekd | Flickr