Learning the tools to find your next job Published April 19, 2013 By Rebecca Burylo Air University Public Affairs MAXWELL AIR FORCE BASE, Al -- Professional fashion "do's and don'ts" will strut into the dress for success fashion show workshop 1-3 p.m. April 26 at the Airmen and Family Readiness Center in preparation for an employment exposition 10 a.m.-1 p.m. May 2 inside the Maxwell Event Center. Last year's expo inspired A&FRC employment assistance consultant Kevin Myers and information and referral consultant Kathi Byrd to teach a class on how to dress appropriately for a job interview. "We thought maybe we should teach a class on how to dress for success because it seemed a lot of people were confused about what they should wear to an interview," said Byrd. "Something you wear on a Saturday night out is not necessarily the same thing you would wear to an interview." Attendees can apply the fashion advice at this year's expo, which will host more than 30 vendors from around the state. Those with base access will have the opportunity to share resumes and talk with company representatives. Examples of both conservative male and female business and business casual dress will be provided and modeled by employees from the Army and Air Force Exchange Service as well as some extreme and subtle examples of inappropriate wear. AAFES will also be giving away two gift cards during the event. When people prepare for an interview, Byrd suggests they research the company and follow its dress code. At the workshop she will explain the appropriate circumstances to wear a suit and tie and when it is best to wear a simple button-down shirt and slacks. Byrd and Myers will also provide tips on appropriate shoes, jewelry, makeup, tattoos, piercings and hygiene as well as lessons on pairing different clothing pieces and accessories. Myers hopes the workshop will help those seeking a job to be successful. "When they walk through the door, I want the potential employer to know that this person is serious about coming in and looking for employment," he said. "Dress makes a big difference in whether someone is really looking for employment or just coming in and wasting time." Some businesses to be present at the employment expo are UPS, Winn-Dixie, Regions Bank, Navy Federal Credit Union, Montgomery Fire Rescue, Montgomery city and county offices, Alabama Department of Education, WCOV TV, Jackson Hospital, Kelley Services, Cracker Barrel Old Country Store and AAFES. There will be something for everyone at the expo, from hourly positions to corporate salary positions, said Byrd. Myers added the expo is a way for people to garner exposure to local and national companies, gain confidence in meeting employers and create interview experience. "This outreach is very beneficial," he said. "It's an easy way to link the Maxwell-Gunter community with the local area, as far as employment goes. This also makes it convenient for a spouse or a military member who may be separating to get a connection, to make a network." Visitors are encouraged to prepare several resumes to give to vendors. Myers will hold a resume writing workshop 10-11:30 a.m. April 30 at the A&FRC for military spouses and family members. Another resume writing class will be held at the A&FRC for active duty 9-11:30 a.m. April 24. Myers is available for private sessions as well. For more information on employment workshops and classes call 953-2353. The next Employment Expo will be Oct. 3.