Preparing for Student Job Fairs
One of the great advantages of attending university in the United States is the opportunity to attend FREE job fairs. Once you graduate, there is usually a fee to attend a career fair, but while you’re still in school, this powerful networking tool is provided at least once a semester. It is extremely helpful in finding out about “hidden” internships and job opportunities – not everything is posted online.
Here are some tips from the Institute of Global Student Success on how to stand out:
Do Your Research
Request a copy of the participating companies before the event (most universities will send a day or two in advance to those who registered). Google each one and highlight six that you really want to meet. Remember there will be tons of students waiting to speak to each company’s recruiter and you may not have enough time to introduce yourself to each one. Visit your top picks first.
Do Your Homework On Your Target Companies
Once you’ve narrowed the list down, dig a little deeper into the recent accomplishments of each of your target companies. You will instantly impress the recruiters if you can say something like, “I really like the video campaign your company launched last week.” Other students will be approaching them blindly.
Leave Something Behind
It’s wise to bring at least ten copies of your resume on nice paper. A thicker stock will stand out from a pile of plain sheets. Student business cards are helpful, too and will most likely go into the recruiter’s bag instead of a folder.
Listen More, Talk Less
Share how you can add value and fill a need their company may have. Don’t ask about their benefits or what they can do for your career. This is where you’re selling yourself. If you’ve done your research, you will already know if they’re a company you would like to work with. Besides your goal is to make contacts and get a possible interview. First, make an impression so you can get an interview. Then ask your questions during the interview.
Describe Yourself in 30 Seconds
The recruiters are literally meeting hundreds of students, and after awhile it’s a blur of faces and resumes. Stand out! How? Describe yourself in a quick blurb, add what you’re looking for (internship or full time job) and share an interesting personal fact. For example:
“Hi, my name is Ann (extend hand for handshake) and I’m originally from Taipei. I’m getting my Masters in Marketing Analytics. I love finding the stories buried inside marketing data and sharing them with my team. I am also a huge fan of 80s music! And I’m looking for an internship for the spring.”
Smile
Make eye contact and show recruiters you’re friendly and personable by smiling. It’s awkward when someone is just staring at you blankly. Even if you’re listening intently – smile.
Take a Copy of the Brochures
Each company will have brochures or other literature displayed on their table; take a copy. You can review later when you’re home, and also use them during the job fair to scribble down quick reference notes for yourself. Such as, “Love this company”, “Not interested”, “Follow up for open positions in November.”
Always Try to Get a Name
Some recruiters may offer you their business card. Others will say they “ran out”, which is when you can ask for their email address. If they say “All our internships and jobs are posted online,” still write down their name and title. Even if you apply online, it’s helpful to mention a current employee’s name (even an HR staffer) as reference.
Remember to check your university’s calendar for the next job fair – and good luck!
