Career fair tips

Why You Should Attend

  • Provides an opportunity to meet and interact with a large number of companies at one time
  • Provides an opportunity to market your knowledge, skills, and abilities to a targeted group of employers
  • You will be able to meet and talk to people who already work for the companies you are interested in
  • Contacts as career fairs can serve as a starting point for you to develop relationships with companies

What Companies are Looking For

  • Solid GPA
  • Relevant work experience (co-op/internship)
  • Strong communication skills
  • Demonstrated leadership abilities
  • Involvement in extra-curricular activities
  • Track record of achievement

What to Expect

  • Spend significant time at the event
  • Pace yourself
  • Distribute a large number of résumés
  • Manage what you carry

Preparation Checklist

  • Visit Career Services website & office
  • Know your target companies
  • Buy the proper attire
  • Rehearse your introduction
  • Create a polished résumé(s)
  • Develop a plan for follow-up

Do Your Homework

  • Know which companies are attending
  • Know which companies are hiring your major
  • Know which companies are not hiring your major
  • Prepare for a career fair as if you were going to an interview

What to Wear

  • Two-piece matched business suit
  • Navy, black, or dark gray
  • Pants or skirt acceptable for females
  • Conservative blouse for females/conservative tie for males
  • Comfortable shoes

Introduction

  • Be proactive if the recruiter doesn’t start the conversation
  • Tell the recruiter your name, class, major, and type of position you’re seeking
  • Practice – but don’t sound like you’re reading a script

Follow-up

  • Follow-up within 48 hours with recruiters from companies you are interested in
  • Email or handwrite a thank-you note
  • Customize your note to each recruiter, drawing on some memorable aspect of your conversation
  • Ask a follow-up question

Source:  Eastman Chemical Company