Brandon Woods Retirement Community human resources director Margaret Ostronic, left, talks with Susan Simmons, of Lawrence, about employment opportunities Friday during the Community Career Connection at Pinnacle Career Institute.

Word of a job fair, job-search seminars and networking opportunities reached all the way to Ottawa, and Mark Clemens wasn’t about to miss out.

Having lost his job two weeks ago, the chance to meet with potential employers — FedEx Ground, Berry Plastics and others — face-to-face proved to be a valuable step in the right direction.

At least for now.

“You never know. New positions eventually come open,” said Clemens, who drove a forklift at the American Eagle Outfitters distribution center in Ottawa. “Even if it’s not the right moment now, they keep your name on file. You’ve got some options.”

Clemens joined about 300 others who dropped by Pinnacle Career Institute on Friday for Community Career Connection, a four-hour event organized by area human-resource professionals to help job seekers make the most of their searches.

More than 30 employers took part in a job fair, while experts volunteered their time to help people improve their chances of landing a job. Seminar topics included how to compile a solid résumé, form an effective network, avoid social-networking pitfalls and properly negotiate for the best salary.

Kelli Nicks, a human resources representative for Capitol Federal Savings, said she visited with about 50 job candidates Friday, or about 20 more than had stopped by her booth during the first Community Career Connection four months ago.

“I’m seeing some quality candidates — candidates with more experience, looking to get specific positions,” said Nicks, who recruits for the company’s sites in the Lawrence, Topeka and Manhattan markets. “The people coming through today are a little more prepared.”

Organizers expect another Community Career Connection to be scheduled for early next year.