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Career Fair Tips

BEFORE THE CAREER FAIR

  • Prepare and bring plenty of marketable resumes.

  • Research the company of interest.

  • Be prepared to ask questions of the representatives.

  • Practice out loud - it helps.

  • Try to identify specific experiences that demonstrate strengths.

  • Back up skills with specific examples – this makes a stronger candidate.

  • Know what type of position is desired within the organization.  If applicant doesn’t know, company won’t either.

DURING THE CAREER FAIR-BEHAVIOR

  • Make a good first impression.

  • Make eye contact immediately during introductions.

  • Give a firm handshake.  

  • Remember the representative’s name; if not, casually refer to nametag.

  • Smile and be polite – enthusiasm is an important quality.

  • Dress appropriately/professionally. A suit is not required, but ratty jeans will not make the right impression.

  • Body language often can speak louder than spoken word.

  • Do not fidget or play with hair. Do not rock from side to side.

  • Do not look around when talking or being spoken to.

  • Do not chew gum, suck on candy, or anything that will interfere with ability to speak clearly.

COMMUNICATION IS CRITICAL - LISTENING AND SPEAKING 

 

  • Listen carefully to what the representative has to say.                                   

  • Avoid using filler words such as “um,” “like,” “you know.”

  • The facility may be noisy and if the company can’t hear the candidate, they won’t remember him/her.     

  • Offer a professional-looking resume or offer to send one.

  • Ask for a business card or write down the representative’s name. It is also appropriate to ask what the hiring procedure is.

  • Explore all options:  Speak with organizations not considered before.

  • Take the initiative and engage in meaningful conversations with representatives.

  • Representatives will be providing information about their organizations and career fields.

  • Representatives are excellent resources in a career search and decision-making process.

 

AFTER THE CAREER FAIR

 

  • Mailing a thank-you letter promptly is appropriate. It will bring attention back to the candidate. This is why asking for a business card is crucial.

  • Send an initial or additional resume with a thank-you letter - again, point out strengths.

  • If sending an application, make sure it is complete and legible.

  • When calling, be prepared and know/practice dialogue beforehand.

 

ASKING QUESTIONS OF THE REPRESENTATIVES AT THE CAREER FAIR

  • First and foremost, questions should be natural and a natural flow should be maintained. Before beginning with questions be sure to make introductions and establish rapport with the representatives.

  • Listen carefully to their answers. Be courteous. Before leaving, be sure to close the conversation and thank them again.

SAMPLE QUESTIONS TO ASK

 

Don’t read directly from this list of questions at the Career Fair. 

  • How many employees does your company have?

  • What goals does your company have for the future?

  • What kind of entry-level positions exist within your organization?

  • Does your company hire on a continual basis or just certain times of the year?

  • How long does the hiring process take?

  • What does your organization consider the 5 most important qualities in an employee?

  • Are advanced degrees important - if so, in what areas?

  • What courses do you suggest in order to be a successful candidate?

  • Is there a GPA cut-off in the recruiting process?

  • What personality traits are important for success in your company?

  • What can an entry-level employee expect to be doing 2, 5, 10 years from now?  

  • What made you choose this company?

  • How long have you been with the company?

  • What has your organization accomplished of which you are especially proud?

  • How many years does the entry-level employee typically stay within the company?

  • What percentage of applicants is eventually hired?

  • What is the retention rate in the company?

  • Do you expect your employees to relocate?

 

 

 

This page is maintained by the Career Services Office.  Last updated:  April 02, 2010