Opportunities 2002 - jump-start your career

If you are looking for a change of career, want to retrain, or simply want to find out more about your ideal job, then Opportunities 2002 is one place to start.

Last year, over 130,000 people benefited from the career-enhancing services at the venue. The event is recognised as offering an ideal chance for employers and jobseekers to see what job vacancies, training courses and education options are available in Ireland.

Around 150 representatives from all over Ireland and beyond will attend, covering a wide variety of careers, including; healthcare, hairdressing, moviemaking, journalism, finance, marketing and tourism. Some of the business world’s best-known companies will be represented, including Microsoft and Holiday Inn Hotels.

The extensive representation from many industry sectors will combine with the emphasis on career development through educational and training resources to offer career and training opportunities for everyone. For students, jobseekers and employees seeking information, Opportunities 2002 offers a comprehensive cross-section of the entire Irish job market.

The main stand at the conference, which takes place at the RDS in Dublin from Friday, February 1, to Monday, February 4, will be FÁS – who will have a team of specialist advisers on hand.

On the human resources side, experts will be on hand to give interview tips and workshops will reveal how candidates can sell themselves at the crucial interview stage.

Visitors wishing to find out more about education and training can visit the ‘Education Village’ where they will be able to receive expert advice on further education options in Ireland and the UK.

If you’re interested in apprenticeships or traineeships, there will also be a selection of practical trade demonstrations in areas such as mechanics and painting and decorating as well as information on hi-tech training programmes in industries including childcare and business administration.

At the ‘Education Village’, you will also be able to experience a wide range of IT skills, from basic computing and keyboard skills to advanced programming and web design.

There will also be a series of free seminars at Opportunities 2002, offering practical career planning advice on a variety of subjects, including interview techniques and information on apprenticeships and traineeships.

Opportunities 2002, www.opps02.com (GMcG/SP)