Walk in prepared and you'll walk out with real leads. These twelve tips cover everything from what to bring to how to follow up.
Bring many copies of your resume to submit to employers.
If you spend a little time getting some background on an organization, then you can ask very focused and specific questions. This impresses representatives because it shows a genuine interest in them. The list of employers, and their websites, will be sent to pre-registrants before the event. Check out each employer's website before arriving.
First impressions are important. While campus attire is acceptable for fairs, you will probably be most comfortable if you at least dress in "business casual." Remember: consider the hiring event one large job interview.
Come as early as possible. Typically, fairs are busiest during the first hour of the event. Fairs close promptly at publicized ending times to accommodate employers' travel arrangements.
When you arrive, take a few minutes to review the map and directory for the fair. You may feel more comfortable if you quickly locate and walk by the employers in whom you're most interested. This will confirm their location and alert you to any crowds or lines.
If your schedule allows, you may find it easiest to start with the employers in which you're less interested. This will allow you to hone your approach and to be most confident when you approach the employers you're especially excited about. Balance this with the reality that you may have little time and many other career seekers may be interested in the same employers. Assume that you will need to wait to speak with some employers.
The fair directory provides a brief summary of employers' opportunities and may not have been submitted by the same people who come to the fair. Some positions may no longer be available and other openings may have just emerged. No single employer representative is knowledgeable about all positions available, especially in a large organization. If the employer rep at the fair does not know specifically about jobs of interest to you, ask for the name of someone who can help you.
Be prepared to give your "career pitch." Extend your hand, say "hello" and state your name. Have your resume ready to give to the employer. Be ready to talk about your career interests as well as academic and career experiences to show your skills and strengths.
Write down next steps and the possibility of talking with additional managers. The representative at the fair may not be able to answer all of your questions or know specifics about your job interests. Write down the names, telephone numbers, etc. of other staff in the organization whom you can contact later. Note specific employer information sessions, on-site interviewing and projected hiring dates that will affect you.
Then promptly send a thank-you note. Having the business card of the representative you have just spoken with serves three purposes: you have a direct contact with the organization, including the proper spelling of their name and direct telephone line; a brief thank-you note acknowledges the help they gave you; and sending thank-you notes is a good professional habit.
Some employers bring large quantities of print materials or "give aways" clearly intended for career seekers to take. Others bring a few copies of print materials or sample products as displays at their tables. Always check with employers before taking materials from their tables and don't take materials still packed in boxes.
Demonstrate sensitivity to other career seekers waiting to speak with employers by keeping your questions brief and offering to continue your conversation at a later time. Enjoy the fair and your interaction with the employers. Let your positive attitude show!