Job Seeker Tips for Job Fairs

Maximize Your Job Fair Experience

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Update Your Resume

  • Proofread your resume for typos.
  • Ask someone else to proofread your resume.
  • Bring at least 20 copies to pass out.
  • Use a portfolio or briefcase to organize resumes and documents.

Do Your Research

  • Know the companies that interest you.
    The more you know about a company, the more you can converse with the company representative and the more memorable you will be.
  • Check your Job Fair Employers Attending page for previously participating companies.
  • A month before your Job Fair, check the Employers Attending page again to see currently registered companies.

Prepare a 30-Second Commercial

  • Be ready to greet each employer with a smile and an enthusiastic 30-second sales pitch.
  • Think about your strong points, your goals, and the company.

Dress Professionally

  • First impressions are very important.
  • Unprofessional dress is the leading reason candidates are rejected.
  • Wear dark, tailored clothing.
  • Style your hair conservatively.

Arriving at the Job Fair

  • Come early while employers are fresh.
  • Turn off your cell phone.
  • Do not carry any food or drinks.
  • Put all papers in your portfolio or briefcase.

Be Assertive and Show Initiative

  • Visit the booths of employers you are most interested in first.
  • Shake hands and introduce yourself to recruiters when you reach the table.
  • Impart enthusiasm about the company and their job opportunities.

Network

  • Speak with companies you would not normally be interested in.
  • Talk to other job seekers—you may hear about opportunities of which you are unaware.

After Meeting Interviewers

  • Collect business cards from the employers you meet.
  • When you leave an interview, make quick notes while your memory is fresh.
  • Follow-up the next day and send personalized thank you notes.