Is a Job Fair Just a Formality? Here’s the Truth

Recently, a job fair held on May 27, 2025, in Cikarang, Bekasi made major headlines. What grabbed attention was the chaois that broke out, leaving several attendees fainting at the venue.

Shortly after, a controversial video went viral on social media featuring an HR staff member who claimed that job vacancies at the fair were “just for show.”

In the video, he alleged that companies only joined to meet the performance indicators set by the Bekasi Regency Employment Office (Disnaker), the event’s organizer.

This sparked speculation: Are job fairs merely a formality for companies? The Minister of Manpower (Menaker), Yassierli, immediately refuted the claim.

See also: Job Openings at Astra Group’s SERA in July 2025

To back this up, the Ministry of Manpower will release data on how many job seekers were actually hired through the job fair.However, this will take time as companies still need to complete their selection processes. At least one to two months are needed.

One of the participating companies also dismissed the idea that the job fair was just for show. Proof? The company directed participants to apply directly through its official website.

So how does the recruitment process at a job fair actually work?And what opportunities does it really offer? Let’s break it down.

Opportunities for Direct Selection

In reality, the recruitment process at a job fair is not much different from applying independently or online through job portals.

The advantage is that companies can meet applicants face-to-face, conducting quick screenings on the spot.Recruiters can immediately gauge a candidate’s communication skills and confidence.

See also: Types of Company Culture You Should Know, with Examples

Of course, not every applicant can be accepted.Companies will shortlist only those who meet their qualifications.

Similar to the online recruitment process, the job fair process goes through several stages. The first stage usually considers educational background. Next comes work experience, and so on.

Why Job Fairs Can Be More Effective

Many companies actually find certain positions more effectively filled through job fairs than job boards.For example, operational and technical roles.

That’s because job fairs attract candidates from all backgrounds—covering a wide range of education and experience levels.The key is: applicants must come fully prepared.

To ensure a smooth selection process, be sure to bring the following documents:

• Updated resume

• Cover letter

• Copies of diploma and transcripts (certified if required)

• Copy of ID card and portfolio (if available)

Also bring stationery such as pens, a notebook, and a folder to keep your documents organized.

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Job Vacancies at Astra Group’s SERA

That’s the reality behind job fairs. Beyond preparation, it is equally important to choose a company with a positive work culture and clear career growth opportunities.Choose reputable companies in their fields, such as PT Serasi Autoraya (SERA).

To this day, SERA continues to offer career opportunities across its subsidiaries, including TRAC, IBID, and SELOG.