Delaware JobLink job fair held at Hudson Fields
A concoction of unpleasant temperatures, brisk winds, the occasional gust and a few rain drops attempted to thwart a concerted effort to get employers in touch with prospective employees at Hudson Fields April 19. The first-of-its-kind event was born out of a partnership between the Delaware Department of Labor, the Milton Chamber of Commerce and the Delaware Small Business Chamber of Commerce. More than 100 business vendors were at the event offering jobs in various fields such as healthcare, hospitality, construction and retail.
Johnny Janosik of Laurel was offering a $1,000 signing bonus to anyone who was hired at the event. Dawn Smith, DOL’s Sussex County business service representative, said several businesses have been offering similar bonuses – notably healthcare employers. Officials say many employers are offering a lot better pay than they used to because of how competitive the job market has become.
Smith said the biggest need she is hearing from the business community is getting in touch with people in need of jobs.
“That’s why we have these events, so we can encourage them to come out and try to apply for these positions, and employers get an opportunity to show what they have to offer,” Smith said.
Despite the dreary weather conditions, more than 50 people turned out with resumes in hand to gauge the prospects of a new part-time job or career. Many different walks of life could be found asking questions about hours available, rate of pay and opportunities for advancement. While officials had hoped for more, they felt enthusiasm from both vendors and potential employees as they entered the fairgrounds.
Due to the summer season, they will not be hosting another event like this until fall. Job seekers and employers looking for more information can log onto delawarejoblink.com or contact Dawn Smith at dawn.smith@delware.gov or 302-855-5233.
