Career Fairs

Career Fairs are a great chance to explore different opportunities. Check out this list of local area career fairs.

2011-2012 List of Career Fairs

Here are a few Tips on How to Handle a Career Fair.

Be Confident as You Approach Each Employer
The purpose of a Career Fair is for students and employers to meet and exchange information. Don't hesitate in your approach! Take the initiative and introduce yourself. Walking and introducing yourself to a recruiter may be uncomfortable, and you may feel awkward and unsure about how to begin a conversation. However, recognize that, as in any new situation, first impression begins with the moment you approach an employer. Make that moment count!

Walk up confidently, say hello, introduce yourself, and shake the representative's hand. Be sure to establish eye contact and smile. Make a general statement about yourself, such as, "I am Salina Smith. I'm a senior at Westminster College majoring in Psychology. I would like to know more about career opportunities with XYZ company." You can also state what particularly interests you about their organization. The more recruiters you speak with, the more skilled you will become at these first introductions.

Dress Professionally
You will succeed in creating the impression that you are serious about your future employment opportunities if you dress in appropriate business attire. Even if the recruiters are more casually dressed, it is recommended to dress in "business" attire, or "business casual."

Bring Enough Resumes
With so many organizations being represented at Career Fairs, having enough resumes to last through the day is essential. The resume should be well written, follow established resume development guidelines, and printed on quality paper.

Send Follow-Up Letters
Ask for a business card before you leave an employer. This will ensure that you have the proper name and address of the representative with whom you spoke.

Send a thank you letter within a week of the event. This should be a formal, typed, business letter on quality paper. Be sure to remind each recruiter that you met him/her at the Career Fair, including brief statement about your interests/background, and that you appreciate having the opportunity to discuss career opportunities with him/her. You may also wish to include another copy of your resume.

Use Your Time Effectively
There will be a list of organizations in attendance prior to the Career Fair. Research the organizations before you introduce yourself to the recruiters so you will be able to ask intelligent questions - and respond to any questions with confidence.

Make a list of the organization representatives you want to meet. Prioritize them. Don't meet with your top choices first. Try out your greeting and introduction on two or three which are nearer the bottom of your list so you will have a chance to overcome any nervousness before you approach your top choices.

Remember
Be polite and wait for other students to finish talking before introducing yourself to an employer. Smile, be confident, and most of all be yourself!

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