Making the Most of a Job Fair

Here are some tips and strategies to best prepare for a job fair.

3 Phases of a Job Fair • Before • During • After

Before the Job Fair • Register • Research • Resume • Elevator Speech • Questions • Job Fair Kit • Attire • Strategy

I. Registration • Most job fairs require you to pre-register. This ensures that you will receive all materials related to the event.

• Registration can usually be done online.

II. Research Companies & Positions • Most events will post a list of participating employers on a webpage 2-3 weeks prior to the event. • These lists are updated on a continuous basis, so be sure to check it often.

Why Research Employers?

• Employers expect applicants to know about their organization • Knowing in-depth information about an organization shows interest and initiative

Why Research Employers?

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• Researching employers allows candidates to: ▫ Identify and eliminate potential employers ▫ ▫ ▫ Help decide if a particular industry is a good fit Help create polished application documents (cover letter, resume, etc.) Prepare for an interview by allowing you to customize questions to ask an employer and to better prepare you to answer company-specific questions.

III. Resume • The job fair acts as an initial, pre-screening interview. Therefore, you want to prepare a professional resume to make available to employers. • A professional resume is needed even if you are applying for internships.

IV. Elevator Speech • Remember, first impressions count. • In preparation for the event, create a 60 second advertisement, that will be used to introduce yourself to potential employers. • This advertisement should concisely state your name, major, school, skills, interests and strengths.

Example of an Elevator Speech “Hello, my name is _______. I am currently a junior, majoring in Criminal Justice at Bowie State University. I like helping people…counseling, advising and mentoring. I’ve been volunteering with the local Boys and Girls club and I think I’d like to work with adjudicated teens, preferably girls. I read that your company has programs that help youth. I’m interested in learning more.”

V. Questions • Remember, this is a job fair so your time with recruiters is short. Ask questions that will yield the most important information.

Sample Questions to Ask • What qualities and characteristics are you looking for in an applicant?

• What are common career paths within your organization?

• What kind of projects are new employees typically involved with?

• Do you offer an internship program? If so, how do I find out more information?

VI. Job Fair Kit • Before the job fair you will want to prepare your job fair kit.

• A job fair kit contains: ▫ ▫ ▫ Multiple resumes printed on quality paper Paper on which to write notes (a portfolio of some type is suggested) A pen

VII. Strategy • In order to make the best use of your time at a job fair, it is best to prepare a strategy. • Your strategy should include: ▫ Time of arrival. The earlier the better as some recruiters leave before the fair is over.

▫ ▫ The names of companies that you wish to talk to first.

The names of companies that you will talk to provided you have enough time.

VIII. Attire • Dress the same as you would for a job interview.

• Consider this a preliminary interview.

• You will only have a few minutes to make an impression as a job candidate. That’s why it’s always important to dress professionally for a job fair.

• Positive first impressions are critical!

Day of the Job Fair • While you have multiple copies of your resume in hand, you’ve outlined your strategy, and you’re dressed in a professional manner, there are still a few things to consider the day of the fair.

Day of the Job Fair • Turn off all cellular devices and electronics.

• Identify the location of the recruiters you want to meet with first. Typically a floor plan or chart is provided to all attendees.

Presentation • • • • • • • Approach employers with confidence.

Make eye contact and shake hands.

Present your resume.

Recite your elevator speech.

Ask your top four questions. Ask for company materials and business cards.

Thank recruiters for their time.

After the Job Fair • Send follow-up letters to organizations expressing your interest in the company and position.

• If necessary, include an updated resume.

• Thank you letters should be received by the employer within 2-5 days after the event.