Preparing for a Career Fair

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

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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