EDITORIAL
Today's job fair worth checking out

Ever go to a job fair where you sensed the bulk of recruiters were just going through the motions because openings were few and far between?

Well, that's far from what to expect at today's Workforce 2004 Job Fair at the Neal Blaisdell Center, which runs from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

As the state's economy continues to rebound and the unemployment rate hovers at a record low, recruiters are sure to be sharply competing for top candidates.

As Advertiser business writer Dan Nakaso reported this week, some Hawai'i companies are so hungry for good workers that they're considering offering better pay to attract job candidates. At least 120 companies and organizations, from ABC stores, to the FBI and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, will have booths at the fair.

That doesn't mean that anyone who wanders into the Blaisdell will get a job. Employers will undoubtedly favor experienced, presentable candidates over those with poor language and social skills who flunk the drug tests.

In anticipating this job boom, we've called for the University of Hawai'i to partner with businesses and set up training programs to sharpen language and number skills.

We've also urged unemployed people with substance abuse and alcohol problems to get help so they can take advantage of this foreseeable boom.

For more information about today's job fair, go to www.jobsurveys.com/workforce or call Success Advertising at 536-7222.

Oh, and dress as you would for a job interview and don't forget to bring multiple copies of résumés.