Be a Hit At The Job Fair
A Job Fair is a great way to learn about companies and their hiring policies, meet employers, and make networking contacts. However, successful attendance requires preparing for the event and taking responsibility for the outcome. Having a plan for meeting as many employers as possible is essential. The following steps can help you be a hit!
Dress Appropriately. Treat the job fair as an interview and wear a suit or other appropriate outfit for your level and industry. Be aware of your body language, speech, and nervous habits. Don't smoke prior to talking with an employer or chew gum. Wear a great attitude and maintain good posture.
Get There Early. Put yourself in the recruiter's shoes. He or she will be at the fair all day, talking to dozens of people. When is the best time to make your introduction? Probably during the first hour or two after opening.
Bring Critical Materials. Carry copies of your resume printed on high-quality paper. Also take along a notebook and several pens or pencils to make notes and complete requested application forms. Although tables are set up at most job fairs, you may have to complete applications while standing. Carry a small dictionary if you have trouble spelling; and have at least one master set of your transcript, references, addresses, and phone numbers. Carry these in a plain, clean envelope or a portfolio or briefcase.
Create A Strategy. You're most likely to impress recruiters if you decide ahead of time which companies to see. Do a little homework before you go so you can focus your efforts. Review the names of participating employers, then divide the list into two groups: an "A" list of compaines that meet your employment objectives and a "B" list of firms to visit if time allows. Prioritize the names of each list and contact the representatives in order. Plan on spending at least two hours. You should also allot extra time for waiting in lines, taking notes and investigating all available options.
Career Fairs can be crowded and tiring. When the opportunity arises, sit down and take a break. Use downtime to learn more about a company whose booth has no lines instead of waiting in a long one. If you are unable to meet the recruiter of your "dream," get their business card and write a note explaining that you were unable to meet, or talk for a sufficient length of time, at the job fair and would like to make other arrangements.
Know What To Say When Meeting Recruiters. Greet them with a firm--but not crushing--handshake. Then either thank the recruiter for coming, ask if this is his or her first time at the fair, ask about his or her trip to the city or make some other type of small talk. Allow them to talk about their company and/or their vacancies. When asked about your background, be ready with a two-minute pitch describing your work experience, accomplishments, and benefits to an employer. Offer your resume and ask for a business card and company literature. Always thank the recruiter for his or her time.
Take Notes. After your meeting, take a moment to record notes on the back of the business card, in your notebook, or on your tape recorder to use for later follow-up. Mention the main points of your conversation and when you should contact the company again.
Analyze Your Actions. Personal presentation skills can always be improved. Ask yourself how employers responded to your conversation and decide how you can do things better the next time.
Follow Up. A job fair is an excellent way to gain leads and make networking contacts. Expand on these contacts by writing personalized thank you letters and making follow-up calls within a week to ten days. Review the information you received about each employer, then ask about opportunities.
Attending a job fair should not be a passive event. With a little effort and a plan, you'll show employers you're a good prospect for their hiring needs.
Created by Nancy Dootson, National Business Employment Weekly Courtesy of Center for Career Development.
For more information, or to set up an appointment, contact Career Development at:
Room 114 in the Houston Harte University Center
P.O. Box 11026, ASU Station
Office Hours: Monday-Friday 8am - 5pm
Phone:(325) 942-2255
Fax: (325) 942-2150
E-mail:career.services@angelo.edu