HOW TO PREPARE FOR A JOB FAIR

What is a job fair? Brings employers, schools, and job seekers together, face to face. Purpose is for recruiters to give you information regarding job opportunities and to distribute information on their company Other names for a job fair; Career Fair, Career Expo, and On-Line Job Fair

Should I go? View the job fair website, read about attending employers Determine if any companies match your career interests and if you match their needs Even if there is only one fit, you have a reason to go Know that the employment world is not divided by major or college but rather industry

Before the Job Fair Register on line in advance to save time - Employer often review their website to see who registered and view resumes in advance Research companies of interest and prepare questions about the company Develop your interviewing skills Prepare copies of your resume for distribution. You may want different resumes for different position Develop your “elevator speech”

Prepare Answers to FAQs What do you know about our company? Why do you want to work for us? What motivates you to do a good job? Tell me about your proudest accomplishment?

Prepare your Sales Pitch Give your name Mention your profession, occupation or the job you’re looking for State your experience, skills and abilities Practice

Shake the recruiter’s hand, look him/her in the eye, and smile Be professional, enthusiastic, and courteous Show a little humor. Let your personality shine through. Think of your conversation as a mini interview – that is what it is Do…..

Don’t….. Be shy or stiff Ramble, fidget, or slouch Say anything negative about yourself, your former company, boss, or coworkers Chew gum, eat, or sip beverage at the recruiting booth

Dress to Impress Professional dress that is relaxed and neat is the best Dress for the job Managers wear business suits Office/clerical should wear dress clothes Trades should wear casual neat clothes Practice good hygiene

Some Don’ts for Women No tight fitting or short clothing No sleeveless shirts or blouses Avoid open toed shoes, high boots, and stiletto heels No printed stockings Avoid large earrings, numerous rings/earrings, and bracelets No non-traditional jewelry such as nose rings, eyebrow rings, and lip rings

Some Don’ts for Men No clothes with holes No bright vibrant colors or patterns Avoid boots No non-traditional jewelry such as nose rings, eyebrow rings, and lip rings Don’t overuse your cologne

Day of the Job Fair Arrive early Get map/list of employers and plan your visits Organize your resumes and thoughts Review your introduction Put on your best smile and begin your quest

Sell Yourself Practice handshake Prepare introduction; include name, job you are interested in, summary of your qualifications, and how you fit in that company Offer USP (Unique Selling Point) what sets you apart from the rest Prepare for questions from recruiters Leave a lasting impression Interviewing workshop here at Career Link

Questions To Ask How soon do you plan to fill the position? Describe the ideal person for the job What do you like most about the company? What training is offered? What is the next step in interviewing for the position?

Questions Not to Ask Compensation Benefits Tell me about your company Am I hired? Position requirements

Follow Up Thank you note or Follow recruiters instructions on the next step Look on company web site for job posting to see if job is still available

Additional Resources