Int’l. Advantage Session 2 Strategies for Working Career Fairs and Roundtables

Before the fair….. Find out which employers will be attending Identify the companies you are most interested in – prioritize (Avoid gov’t. & defense contractors) Be clear about what you are seeking Prepare targeted resumes Create a list of questions for each employer

Researching a company What is its function? How is it organized/corporate structure? What jobs are they recruiting for? What are the responsibilities of those jobs? What skills are they seeking?

Business Casual? Women Dress/skirt Heels Make-up? Men Khakis or dress pants No tennis shoes Tie or jacket

Finishing Touches DO’S Use deodorant Mints Use a lint brush Check teeth/hair Tuck in Other thoughts? DON’Ts Use heavy perfume Wear native dress Eat garlic/onion

Work it, baby! Be concise – you’ll have about 3 minutes Sell, sell, sell Be prepared to answer questions – remember your skill sets SMILE

Opening Lines I’m so glad you’re here! I’d love to work at your company I’ve been researching your company Great/Exciting/wonderful display What a great company! Could I have a second of your time?

Greetings Hi Hello Jane, John Ms. Smith/Mr. Jones Madame/M’am/Sir

Introductions Let me introduce myself: My name is s-l-o-o-o-w and clear I’m ________ (slow and clear) Consider: short version first name only FIRM HAND SHAKE LOOK AT THEM, SMILE HAND THEM A RESUME

Interview Schedule My experience is a good/excellent/great/perfect fit with your needs I’d love to get on your interview schedule I’d really like an opportunity to talk with you about my skills My resume satisfies many of your requirements I know your schedule’s full, but if you could fit me in, I can be really flexible about interviewing at your convenience.

Keeping Their Attention Connect your experience with the company: I’ve _____ You mentioned ______. That’s exactly what I did in Marketing class/project I’m a great team player You mentioned “globalization” – that’s me all the way! My real strong point is ______

Polite Persistence No Room on Schedule Is there any way that can be altered? Will there be any other opportunities to meet? Can you make an exception please? No Internationals I’m authorized to work beginning June 1 It’s not as hard as you may think – here’s a flyer about visa regulations The university has helped me make sure I’m legal

Visa Question Do NOT bring it up on your own Assure them that for internship/1 st year, they have no obligation “If you’re really globalizing, who could be better?” IF you prove yourself and they help you apply for an H-1B, you’ll pay for it, and you’ll be loyal for at least 3 years

Graceful Exits May I have your business card, please? I enjoyed meeting you Great! See you then! Is it okay if I apply directly? Could you recommend anyone in your company that may be interested in my abilities? That’s too bad. I think we would be a good fit Thank you for your time

Follow-up Employers report that fewer than 5% of students follow- up after a fair – it better be you! , , !

Thank you, Mr./Ms. Recruiter Timing – immediate Structure and elements: – Enjoyed meeting you yesterday at the IU Kelly School of Business Fair (who, what, where) – Really interested in the ______ position (why) – Mention anything you discussed/memory triggers – Thank you for your consideration Attach Resume

Practice, practice, practice!