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