Making the most of the career fair

Overview Career Fair Information Why Attend? What to Expect Build a Brand for Yourself Strategy Paper Trail First Impressions Follow Up

Career Fairs: Why Attend?

Career Fairs: what to expect Employer Reps Information on available positions Line for some employers Lots of noise!

Career Fairs: Preparation What do you want to obtain? Review list of participating employers Preliminary Research Develop a list of questions Create career fair navigation plan Dress to Impress Create and perfect elevator speech

Career Fair strategy: elevator speech How… Do you want to serve? (Job Function) What… Is the position title you’re seeking? Who… Do you want to work for / serve? Where…Do you want to be? (Organization or physical location) Why… Does this interest you?

Career Fair Strategy: Paper Trail Get Your Resume Ready (Cover Letters too) Resume Review at the Career Center Create employer – targeted resumes Carry 5 – 10 general resumes Use professional portfolio/padfolio – black

Career Fair Strategy: First Impressions Morning of Career Fair Shower, shave, brush hair, look dapper / dashing No strong perfume or cologne Eat Breakfast Print Resumes / Cover Letters Review List of Employers Practice Elevator Speech Upon Arrival (Arrive Early if Possible) Pick up event material, locate employers Scan the room – walk through Approach targeted employers Be yourself Smile!

First Impressions Approach Each Employer With Confidence Avoid: Smiles, hand shakes, eye contact 30 Second Elevator Speech Ask Questions Leave Resume(s) Focus on what you can bring to the company Take notes after conversation Talk to all employers Avoid: Saying “I’ll take anything” or “I don’t know” Asking about salary

Career Fair Strategy: Follow Up During the Career Fair Keep track of who you met with and what you talked about Get contact information when possible Ex: Business Cards After the Fair Within 24 – 48 hours, send recruiter an email Remind them that you met them at the UW Bothell Career Fair Express interest in their opportunities and mention next steps (I am submitting my application through your career portal; I look forward to speaking with you further, etc.) Thank them for their time!

Questions? Conclusion…