IS THIS YOUR FIRST JOB FAIR?

Here are some basic guidelines to help you get prepared.

Career Services is available to help you all the way.

In-Person Job Fairs  |  Virtual Job Fairs  |  After the Fair

In-Person Job Fairs

BEFORE

  • Prepare a resume. Career Services can review it for you. Make multiple copies to give to employers.
  • Research the attending companies in which you are interested.
  • Practice a brief introduction that summarizes why you want to work for the employer.  Not sure how?  Check with Career Services!
  • Dress appropriately (see below).
DURING
  • Remove hat/gloves/sunglasses (unless you need them to see, of course).
  • Remember to silence your cell phone.
  • Bring a pen, but don’t carry too much into the fair.
  • Offer a firm handshake and make good eye contact when introducing yourself.
  • Get contact information so you can follow up.
AFTER

What to wear at a job fair

1. Dress out of respect for others.

2. Wear what makes you feel professional. For example:

  • Business casual:
    • Nice tailored pants/khakis with a collared shirt or skirt and a conservative shirt or sweater.
    • Dark neutral solids or subtle patterns. Clothes should be clean and neatly pressed.
    • Wear what fits – nothing too tight or too baggy.
  • Eliminate dressing distractions – (noisy jewelry, graphic-tees, etc.) Make it easy for the employer to stay focused on you.
  • Keep jewelry to a minimum and choose conservative, simple styles.
  • Wear clean, conventional shoes.
  • Pay attention to your hair and nails.

 

 

 

Virtual Job Fair

What to Expect

Identify which employers you plan to visit and create your schedule.  Enter the virtual room at the identified start time.  The host will receive notification and admit you.

An employer may wish to provide information in a group setting, or speak with students individually; in which case you may encounter a short wait.

Be Prepared

  • Research the employers you plan to speak with.
  • Make sure your technology is in working order and that you are able to run the software required for the meeting. If at all possible, use a desktop, laptop, or propped tablet rather than a hand-held phone to avoid a shaky image.
  • Dress professionally and secure your background and location to avoid distractions as best as possible. Silence your phone.
  • Practice a quick introduction of yourself and how you could demonstrate a knowledge of their company.  Prepare a question or two if a question period is offered.  In a larger group, you may not have this opportunity, but if you do, be as brief as possible to allow time for others.
  • Present confidence using professional language, maintain eye contact, and be aware of your body language.
  • Have paper and pen available to take quick notes. Use these notes to write a targeted thank you note.
  • If the opportunity arises, show your interest in the position: offer a resume, ask about the next steps, and how to get in touch with the recruiter.
  • Don’t say you are interested in the position/company when you know that you are not.  You won’t hurt their feelings.  Courtesy is best.