If you're in the market for a new or better job, you may want to make plans to be at the Georgia Mountains Center on Thursday.

The Georgia Department of Labor, Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce and a few other organizations have come together to organize a career and resource expo 1-5 p.m. at the center.

"It's been a while since we've done an event here in Gainesville and it's really taken off. Our goal was to reach 80 employers, but so far we've gotten responses from around 90," said Mel Wages, labor department employment and training consultant.

"It's really encouraging news to see so many companies coming out that have job openings. This is one of the largest events in Georgia that we've been involved in this year."

Although some employers will be hiring, others will be providing information about future employment opportunities with their company.

Belk, AFLAC, Hall County government, Tyson Foods, UPS, ZF Industries and Goodwill Industries all are among the employers who are expected to participate in the expo.

Space is limited, but Wages said there is still room for a few more employers. Even though all employers won't be hiring immediately, event organizers urge attendees to do their best to make a good impression.

"It's so important for (attendees) to dress professionally and to bring as many résumés as they can get their hands on," Wages said.

"When you walk up and introduce yourself to an employer, it's like having a mini, three-minute interview, right there on the spot. So it's important to make a good first impression."

With an expected crowd of about 1,000 to 2,000 potential employees, Wages has other tips for folks looking to separate themselves from the masses.

"People should plan on coming early and staying late to talk to as many employers as possible. Before you arrive, it's good to have some background knowledge about the company you are interested in working for," he said.

"(Attendees) can get a list of employers who are expected to be in attendance from our website, so that they can research them in advance.

"Being able to ask relevant questions about the company and having that knowledge can be impressive to employers."