Preparing for a Career Fair
University Career Services
Objectives • Identify what to expect at a career fair • Discuss what you need to do to prepare for a career fair • Learn successful strategies for marketing yourself to potential employers during and after a career fair
What is a Career Fair? • Large scale event offered by universities, nonprofit organizations or consortiums to connect employers and employment seekers Student’s Goal- to find an internship or a job; network with potential employers Employer’s Goal- to find good candidates for internships or jobs; or to source for potential future openings
How to Prepare- Your Resume & Research
• Prepare your resume – Have a UCS Staff member review during walk-ins or your scheduled appointment time – Print using a Laser Jet Printer on “Resume Paper” – Bring at least 25 copies to the fair (No Cover Letter Needed) – Some employers might say “submit your resume online” others will take it and make notes
• Research organizations attending (CareerCat) – Think about what organizations you want to target (within your industry, small vs. large) – Prepare questions ahead of time for each company and write down on your notepad/Portfolio Folder – Practice answering sample questions
How to Prepare- Dress (Women)
Navy, gray, and black suits Skirts length Hosiery should be skin tone Keep accessories to a minimum Make-up should look natural Choose one; handbag or briefcase
How to Prepare- Dress (Men)
Invest in a conservative color Check for proper fit Wear socks that match your trousers Clean your shoes The tie knot should be small
How to Prepare- What to Say • The Elevator Speech- an exercise designed to help you practice your introduction and selfmarketing • 3 Elements to the Speech 1. Who you are 2. What you do 3. How you do it (Your Story)
Tips Tips
••Keep Keepititsimple simple ••Avoid Avoidjargon jargonoutside outsideof ofyour yourindustry industry ••Focus Focuson onhow howyou youcan canbenefit benefitthe theorganization organization
What to Expect- Registration • Show your WildCard (Student ID) • Sign-in & Receive Booklet (Company information and More) • Check the Dry Erase Board for Updates on Companies Attending
What to Expect- Before Entering the Room • Name Tag – Include First, Last Name; Major and Grad Year
• Coats and Bags – The less bulk the better – Leave your Bookbag at Home
• Orientation to the Room(s) – Rows of Companies with little room to walk – Overflow rooms may exist – Check the room map
Tim TimSmith Smith Economics Economics 2010 2010
What to Expect- The Fair
What to Expect- The Fair • Expect to speak with individuals at all levels • Recruiters get tired, especially towards the end of a fair • Company lines will vary in length; plan accordingly
– Don’t underestimate companies with shorter lines
• Visit the side rooms • Maintain professionalism during your entire time at the event no matter where you are
What to Expect- Approaching the Employers • Role Play
The Recruiters’ Perspective • Be yourself • Walk around alone at the fair • Do not just drop off your resume • Give a firm handshake and make good eye contact • Ask questions • Approaching a crowded booth can make it difficult for recruiters to answer your questions
Things to Keep in Mind • Represent Yourself Well – Do allow the employer to see that you are interested in their company and you’ve done your research – Do not lead with questions that might make the employer think all you care about are personal needs (i.e. Money, Location, Sponsorship)
• How do you handle uncomfortable questions? – Employers should not be asking for personal information
• Some employers are sourcing for future talent • Be Sure to Get Business Cards!
After the Event • Review what you learned – Information about employers and potential opportunities – More uncertainty leading to further research
• Write Thank you letters (within 48 hours) • Possible interviews from career fair conversations • Networking contacts
Let’s Start Preparing • Practicing the Elevator Speech 1. Complete the Handout 2. Find a Partner 3. Practice one at a time delivering your Elevator Speech
Upcoming Career Fairs • MLK Public Interest Fair, Tues. Jan 12th 12-4pm, Norris • Winter Career Expo, Thurs. Jan 14th 12-4pm, Norris • Winter Tech Expo, Fri. Jan 22nd 2-6pm, Norris • Indianapolis Career Fair, March 12th • Science Career Forum, March 19th, U of Chicago • Medill & School of Comm Spring Career Fair, April 7th, Norris • Big Ten Plus Career Fair, April 9th, 12-4pm, U of Chicago
University Career Services Main Office 620 Lincoln Street 847-491-3700 Career Lab Core Reserve Main Library, 2nd Floor North Web www.northwestern.edu/careers Facebook www.facebook.com/northwesternuncs Twitter http://twitter.com/northwesternucs LinkedIn http://www.linkedin.com/groupRegistration?gid=1926036