Job seekers head to WNY job fairs

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) - Out of work Western New Yorkers looked to change their fortunes at a pair of job fairs on Saturday.

Frank Michalskio reminded, "Bring a resume and enthusiasm."

May sound easy, right?

But according to CBS News, the national unemployment rate held steady during February at 9.7%.

"My wife had to send out at least 200 applications and only got two calls," Gary Slomowicz explained.

Chair person of the Community Market Place said, "There are probably over 100 jobs being offered here because each of the businesses are offering two to three different opportunities."

And they expect 2,000 to 3,000 to come in looking for jobs, so the competition is high.

This is forcing people to take pay cuts or change fields all together.

"I was a printer, but I'm looking for anything now."

This wasn't the only place to stop if you are looking for a job.

Public Relations Director for the Buffalo Bisons, Brad Bisbing explained, "There's a lot of jobs here at the ball park that helps us put on the great Bisons experience. Everything from the concession stands, to the merchandise department, to the comissary, to here in Pettibones. So we definitely need a lot of help during the summer."

However, the competition was high here too.

They expected about 500 people to walk through the door with only 75 jobs available.

News 4 caught up with Eric, who is interested in working for the Bisons.

"I've been looking for a job here and there but I would like something that is steady," Eric commented.

Something that is steady and something that he loves.

"I love cooking, serving people meals and making people happy," he exclaimed.

Between the two job fairs, about 175 Western New Yorkers, who were unemployed this week will be employed next week.