Preparation
Preparation is one of the most important things when it comes to attending career fairs. Employers will see hundreds of applicants during the course of the day, and if you are not prepared and do not meet the minimum expectations, you will be discounted quickly!
Much like a television commercial, prepare a brief, 30-second introduction of yourself to give to employers. Include:
Your name
Your career status
What type(s) of position(s) you are seeking
Why you chose their company (this is where your research comes in)
What to Wear
It is always appropriate to wear professional attire to a Career Fair, regardless of the culture of
the company you may be targeting. Career Fairs are designed as a professional networking tool,
and you should always present your BEST and MOST PROFESSIONAL image. Be sure hair and
nails are clean and well-groomed.
During the Fair
Respect the privacy of other job seekers who are speaking with recruiters. Do not interrupt unless you are invited to do so by the recruiter.
Make eye contact and listen attentively.
Be confident, and shake hands firmly.
Ask questions about the company to maximize your time spent at the Career Fair. Don't just use it as a time to hand out as many resumes as possible. Take the time to do your own screening of companies.
Gather business cards from everyone you speak with so that you can follow up with a thank you
letter after the fair. In addition, ask the recruiters in attendance for the name of the hiring
manager in the department you are interested in.
Take a few moments to jot down notes about the recruiters and companies you spoke with to
help you remember later.
After the Fair
Following up with recruiters after the fair is something that is often overlooked, and yet seen as polite and courteous to most employers.
Write a thank you letter to each employer with whom you spoke at the fair. Letters should be
sent no more than 24 hours after the fair and should include the following:
Confirm your interest and enthusiasm for the company.
Highlight your skills and assets that you feel would most benefit the company.
Inquire about the next step in the selection process.
Include your contact information.
Follow up within a few weeks by calling or e-mailing the recruiter to see if you can meet with
them again.
Employer Pet Peeves
Not dressing neatly or professionally
Not bringing resumes or enough copies of your resume
Not enough knowledge of a company
Lacking interest in the company or job opportunities
Asking about compensation
Not asking any or enough questions
Not making eye contact
Lacking communication skills
Not taking the time to fill out the job application when asked