Job Fair Tips
A job fair is a great opportunity to network with numerous employers at one site on one day, and it allows you to establish connections with recruiters in ways that your resume does not. There are a number of ways you can make the most of your visit to one.
Dress for a professional interview. Your first impression affects your credibility as a candidate for employment.
Bring plenty of resumes. Many employers need something tangible to reassess your qualifications either during or immediately after an event.
Bring a folder, paper and pens. It is important to take notes and to keep your materials organized throughout an event.
Research the employers. Conduct research on the organizations you wish to visit so that employers perceive you as being prepared, focused and knowledgeable.
Map out a plan. Use your time effectively by deciding which employers, and in what order, you wish to visit.
Visit with unfamiliar organizations. Note that many job seekers land quality opportunities with places that are relatively unknown by the general public.
Keep an open mind. Meet with employers from industries that you might consider outside of your major, because they may have special employment needs for which you qualify. Remember that hospitals hire public relations specialists, database analysts and accountants, not just medical staff.
Prepare an introduction. Start with a firm handshake and a smile. Develop a 30-second commercial that succinctly highlights your career goals, related experiences, internships, activities, special skills, etc. Have questions ready to ask but do not inquire about salary, benefits or basic company information that you could have researched beforehand.
Collect business cards and company brochures. Business cards serve as clear reminders as to whom you met and company brochures better educate you about the organizations.
Initiate follow-up soon thereafter. Sending a thank-you letter/e-mail and another copy of your resume to a recruiter represents your enthusiastic interest in an opportunity and keeps the lines of communication open with the employer.
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