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February 01, 2008
Job-Fair Wrap Up
I was speaking the other day with a student about internship/job fairs. The student was rather apprehensive about the ordeal. I definitely relate to job-fair anxiety, they really can be intimidating. However, they are really worthwhile. I wanted to relay some tips to make your next job-fair excursion less stressful and more productive. Also, if those reading have advice, please DO leave a comment with your insight!
1. Get your resume out of the way
It's really frustrating to burn the midnight oil working on a resume the day before the job-fair. It is stressful, and it's difficult to get your resume critiqued if you are working on it at 1am.
2. Figure out who's attending
Before the career fair, the list of participating organization is posted. If you figure out who will be there, you can organize your time and make sure to visit the organizations you are most interested in. It will also allow you to develop some questions, which brings me to the next point.
3. Ask questions!
That's what the companies are there for. You don't have to ask 100 questions or even an extremely insightful, thought provoking question. Some possibilities are:
What training do you give your hires?, How many of your interns do you hire full time?, What's the best part of working at your firm?...the possibilities are endless. They key is to have a little bit of conversation and to learn as much as you want or desire.
4. Be prepared for them to ask you questions/Bring your resume
Some companies will ask questions about your experience, sort of like an impromptu interview. Be ready to speak about the experiences on your resume and bring several copies with you. Don't expect to be questioned for longer than a few minutes, but be on your toes.
If an employer doesn't ask for your resume, you aren't doing anything wrong...some companies just do not request them. If you wish, you can ask them (politely) if they accept resumes before you leave their table.
5. Dress Code
Although there is no official dress code, plan to be presentable. My recommendation is to dress at least business casual. Many will be wearing suits too. When in doubt, err on the side of dressing more formally.
6. Be excited!
Job fairs are a great way to meet with employers. Do the best you can and move on. They can be a great spring board, but if the fair doesn't go as well as you hope, don't fret. There will be plenty more opportunities to make an impact on an employer.
Visit the Career Center's Fair page to learn about upcoming career fairs!
-Neil
Posted by ntambe at February 1, 2008 12:23 PM
Comments
Here's an addition to your list:
"Assume your positioning"
In the marketing world, "positioning" refers to the distinctive qualities that draw consumers to your product rather than someone else's. For example, Subway's positioning is "fresh and healthy", while KFC's is "hearty and homecooked."
Personal positioning works the same way. It sets you apart from the other generic faces in the room.
Before you go to a networking event, think about how you would like companies to view you/remember you. Then, assume your positioning.
www.jakeonjobs.com
Posted by: jakegreene1@gmail.com at February 2, 2008 09:17 AM
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