4 Tips to a Successful Career Fair
It’s almost Career Fair season on campus. Among other things college students have to manage, they’re also making time to go after the highly sought-after internships or, if you’re a graduating senior, a full time career. So, as a highly motivated young professional just dying to take on the world (and the sea of employers all trying to recruit you in 1 day), here are 4 helpful tips to leave a great impression on those recruiters.
1.Professional Attire
“A suit?!” you ask? I know you’re a poor college student eating ramen noodles; and let’s face it, the extra funds are going to other activities. My advice is to invest in (or even borrow) a suit. Make sure it’s clean, fits, and is wrinkle free.
It might occur to you to show up wearing flip-flops or Uggs with jeans or yoga pants and that t-shirt that says you were too cool to care what you looked like this morning. All kinds of recruiter red flags go up- mainly, “What else about this person’s life is a mess?” While many companies don’t require suits in the office, they still want to know you can conduct yourself appropriately in a professional setting.
2.Plan and do your research
Schools will advertise in advance what companies will be at the career fair. Take a look at that them and make a bucket list. Research what opportunities are available at your bucket list companies. Be able to talk about why those companies excite you and how you identify with their mission. Make sure you practice your pitch and be able to align your strengths with the mission and values of those companies. Practice in your mirror, and with friends, mentors and colleagues. Confidence will be key!
3. Be open to opportunity
Instead of walking straight to your bucket list companies with blinders on, breaking into a sprint away from other companies who may want to speak to you; slow down, shake some hands, engage in conversation. Learn what these companies are looking for. They might just be looking for someone with your skills and personality AND they might also be a great company that aligns with your values. At the very least, it’s a chance to practice your pitch so it’s spot on once you get to your bucket list companies. There are so many opportunities out there that you’re not aware of.
4. Make meaningful connections
Lastly, and most importantly, get the most out of the event by actually connecting with recruiters and companies. You do this by having conversations and that means asking questions. Don’t just go up to a recruiter, shake their hand, immediately rattle off your 30 second elevator pitch, and thrust your resume into their hands. You will have wasted your time and probably some nervous energy because the company may not be looking for someone with your qualifications or has no available internships- all because you didn’t think to ask. Slow down, be confident, and see if the company is a good fit. If it is, ask about next steps or better yet, ask if you can connect on LinkedIn or exchange contact information and politely ask if they would like to see your resume.
The goal of the event is to create opportunities and open doors to potential career paths. You’ll likely attend a few of these in your college career and each time you’ll get better at making connections. If you always keep these 4 things in mind, you’ll consistently make a lasting impression on recruiters and they will be your biggest cheerleaders through the hiring process.
