1. Preparing for the Career Expo
Career Management Services
Florida Institute of Technology
Kimberly RYan

2. Overview What is a Career Expo What to Bring Researching Employers
Navigating the fair
Approaching Employers
Follow Up
Other Services

3. What is a Career Expo?
The event is not a job store. Career Fairs are networking opportunities to become more acquainted with companies you may be interested in working for someday.
Two Main Opportunities
Learn about companies and open positions
Make a good impression

4. What to Bring Student ID card Several resumes
References/ Letters of Recommendation
Unofficial transcripts
Samples of work
Briefcase (Information, freebies, etc)

5. Dress Professionally
Business casual dress is acceptable for a career fair
Research employers, many will prefer you to wear a suit

6. Professional Dress
Clothing should be clean and streamlined (no loud patterns or distracting trends)
Suits should fit well and be conservative color and style
Wear appropriate shoes and accessories
Hair should be well-groomed
Makeup and jewelry should be conservative and should not draw attention
Tattoos and piercings should be concealed

7. What Not to Wear!

8. Bring Several Resumes
Name & Contact Information
Skills
Education
Related Experience/Employment
Honors
Volunteer Experience/Activities/ Memberships
center/resumes.php

9. Researching Employers
Visit the Career Management Services Website for a list of attending employers or on Handshake
Make a list of employers of interest
Review each company website – understand what the company does
Review types of positions currently open, check the “New Graduates” and “Interns” sections for application procedures
Print a separate resume for each employer you are targeting
Prepare a question you could ask the representative to show your knowledge and interest in their company

10. Career Fair App & Info

11. Navigating the Expo Plan of Action Gaining information on Employers
Pre-register
Come earlier in the morning
Utilize maps or apps
See which companies are busier,
and plan accordingly
Gaining information on Employers
Pick up marketing materials
Listen to conversations with other students

12. Approaching Employers
State your name clearly, with a firm handshake and a smile, looking the recruiter in the eye.
Always ask for their business card/contact information
If they are not the right contact for your interests, make sure to get the information for the person who is

13. Elevator Pitch
Your Professional Pitch
I am a student at Florida Tech/Florida Institute of Technology, majoring in ____________,
My background and strengths include __________ (One or two specific accomplishments you are proud of, etc.)
My future career goals are ________________. (Goals should be relevant to the company)

14. Examples
Currently, I am a sophomore in Computer Science with experience in C++, HTML and Java. I have taken courses on these subjects and designed several effective scripts. I have worked as a help desk support person in the Florida Tech computer lab and I plan to obtain Project Management Training in Six Sigma. I am now looking for a position in CIS where I can continue to develop and use my computer skills.
I am a junior majoring in Finance and Investments and have done well in my Finance courses, such as Options, Future Markets, and Investment Analysis. I am also a member of the Finance & Economics Society, and I enjoy doing day trades in my spare time. I’ve actually been a successful investor on my own behalf by following industry trends and company reports. I am now looking for an internship in a brokerage firm.

15. Questions to Ask Examples of current open positions?
What type of training is available?
What types of assignments are given?
What do you look for in candidates?
What key skills/experiences are highly desirable?
Do you have any tips for success in this field? What should you avoid?
Is there anything unique to your company concerning the hiring process?
Any volunteer projects, events, or opportunities?

16. What if my major is not represented?
Approach any employers of interest, regardless of the majors listed
Ask them if they will hire majors other than those listed in the future
Show that you’ve done research on the company and show them how you would be a good fit for their company

17. Networking Etiquette
Do not approach an employer only to take the free giveaways
Show interest in all employers – talk to those who are not busy, recruiters do notice how you are behaving at other booths
Do not approach an employer as a group or with friends

18. Follow Up with a Thank You E-mail
Within 2 weeks, hours is recommended
Indicate that you met the representative at the Career Expo at Florida Tech
Include specific information from your conversation
Refresh their memory with content from your professional pitch
Use a formal layout
You may also connect with them on LinkedIn, only follow up with a call or in person visit if they give you permission

19. Our Services: Handshake Career Shift & GoinGlobal
Individual Appointments
Resume Reviews
Job/Internship Search
Mock Interviews
Handshake
Career Shift & GoinGlobal
Fall & Spring Career Expos
On-Campus Interviews
Information Sessions & Meet
Skillshops & Webinars
Skillshops
ProTrack Co-op Program
Host a Panther Externship Program

20. Career Management Services
Harris Commons, Room