Job Fairs 

 

Know who you’re talking to .     Make a point to learn something about some of the companies or graduate programs that you are interested in before you go to Career Expo.

Dress the part .  This is your first impression—you want to look like a professional. 

Carry your credentials in a professional way .A neat folder or small briefcase work well. Leave your coat, backpack, and other gear in the car or dorm room.

Pack your credentials. Be able to supply potential employers with the following.

  Resumes – Bring about 30-copies

  Professional portfolio – examples of your work

  Pad portfolio – for taking notes

  Pen or Pencil  

 

Come early.   Come early while employers and recruiters are fresh—and hit the booths of those you are most interested in talking with first.

Give them a strong handshake and a positive attitude . Greet each recruiter with a smile and an enthusiastic 30-second sales pitch—your name, your major, and your career interests as they relate to that company or graduate study program. 

Collect Business Cards .   Write notes about the recruiter and company or the school on the back of the card. Use these notes personalize your thank-you notes.

Ask for the next step . At the end of a conversation with a recruiter, ask what the next step is in the hiring or grad school application process.

Write a thank-you note . Send a thank-you note to every recruiter you speak with at the career fair.    Some prefer notes by mail, some are happy for an e-mailed thank you.