How To Make a Career Fair Work For You

1. How To Make a Career FairWork For You Presented by Clark University Career Services

2. What is the Event Like? • Registration Table – sign in, review list of organizations in attendance and recruiter contact information. • Scan map of the room to easily locate organizations you wish to target. Organizations will have a table display, freebies, and company literature.

3. Why Go? • Opportunity to meet employers face-to-face • Gain knowledge of organizations, some you might not be aware of • Learn about: Summer jobs, internships and full-time jobs • Practice speaking with employers

4. Recruiters are Looking For: • Students who have researched their organization • An effective 30 second “commercial” which will direct the conversation and clearly state which position the student is interested in • A student with a game plan who has researched the company. • Honest answers to direct questions….such as: “What is your current GPA?”

5. Develop a polished, professional resume to present to employers. Career Services will help you write your resume and will critique your drafts. Drop it off at our office and it will be ready for pick-up in 48 hours. Bring Resumes

6. Research • Review the list of organizations. Research those of interest, review their website. • Based on what you learn, develop a list of questions to ask the employer.

7. Remember… • You have only one opportunity to leave a good first impression • Dress appropriately. A business suit is preferred, “Business casual” attire is acceptable at an on-campus fair • Shake hands firmly and maintain good eye contact. Be positive and enthusiastic. Show that you are interested in what the recruiter has to say. • Wait until you are leaving the table to take the “freebies” offered.

8. Practice Your “30-Second Elevator Pitch” • Be prepared to market yourself. Indicate your: year in school, major, area(s) of interest, and the type of position you seek (full-time entry level, internship, summer). • Ex: “Hello, my name is ______. I am a senior at Clark, completing a degree in Psychology and Women’s Studies. I’m interested in beginning a career in human services and I read that your agency provides services to families in crisis. I’d like to learn more about the entry-level career opportunities you have available.”

9. Follow-Up • Ask for a business card from each employer you speak with. On the back, write a short note about the company and your discussion. • Follow-up with a thank-you letter or email to the employer. Mention something you learned from talking with him/her. If you are interested in being considered for a position state that, and reiterate the qualities you could bring to the organization.

10. Sample Questions to Ask at a Career Fair • What would your organization consider the 5 most important qualities in an employee? • Does your company hire on a continual basis or just at certain times of the year? • How long does the hiring process take? • Are graduate degrees important? If so, in what areas? • What coursework do you look for in successful candidates? • Is there a G.P.A. cut-off in the recruiting process? • What personality traits are important for success in your company? • As an entry-level employee, what can I expect to be doing in 5 years? • What made you choose this company? • How long have you been with the company? • What things has your organization accomplished of which you are especially proud? • For how many years does the entry-level employee typically stay with your company? • Do you expect your employees to relocate/travel?

11. Annual Clark University Internship Fair • Listen to fellow Clarkies experiences at a career fair • http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IWwDdt-yzZM