Career Fair Tips

Before the fair

• Plan to wear comfortable but professional clothing—first impressions matter!

• Research the companies that will be participating in the fair, especially those of interest to you.

• Bring several copies of your clean, up-to-date resume in a folder or portfolio.

• This event is to help you find employment; do not bring your family along with you.

Meeting Employers

• Don’t let someone else speak for you.

• Shake hands, make good eye contact, smile, and deliver your 30 second commercial or elevator speech.

• Offer a resume to the employer. Some employers will refer you to their company web site.

• Be reasonable when taking recruiter giveaways. Thank employers for any materials you are given.

• Jot down a fact on the back of a business card to help jog your memory when you write a follow-up letter.

Other Hints, Tips, and Tricks

• Don’t ask, "What do you have for my major?"

• Be assertive without being rude.

• Be open-minded and flexible; you might be surprised at what you find.

• Use the fair to pick up pertinent information about an organization that can be used in a follow up letter of inquiry, application, or thank you note.

• Be sensitive to others waiting behind you.

• Don’t ask about salary and benefits.

Following Up

• Keep track of the organizations and representatives with whom you spoke.

• Send a thank you letter to the representatives you wish to pursue. This will set the stage for future correspondence.

• Reflect upon your approach and interactions. What went well? What would you do differently? Did you learn anything about yourself or a potential employer?