College Career Fairs

via CagleCartoons

So your fall college career fair is coming up and you're not sure if you should go, what to bring, what to wear or what to expect.

Career Fairs are a great opportunity to present yourself to potential employers.  The cool thing is they come to you!  There will be upwards of 50+ businesses that are hiring New College Grads all vying for your attention.

So, where do you start?

1.  Do your research

• Your college will have a directory of represented businesses with a short profile of who they are and what positions are open.  This gives you the ability to research them prior to the fair, so you can pick and choose who you want to present yourself to.  
• Go to their websites and see who they are.  Most businesses have a "What's it like to work here" section on their website.  Check it out to learn more about their culture!

2.  What to Wear

• Dressed to Impress!  Based on the position you are applying for you should wear:
• Guys -  a suit and tie, dress slacks and nice button down shirt with or without a sport coat.
• Ladies - a dress suit, dress with blazer, dress slacks with a dressy blouse.

• What NOT to wear:
• Jeans, shorts, T-Shirt and sneakers or flip flops.

• First impressions say a lot about someone - you want to be remembered for the Good, not the Bad!

3.  What to Bring

• Your Resume  
• Make enough copies to pass out.
• Customize a Cover Letter:
• If you have done your research on each company, customize your Cover Letter to each company you want to speak with.  Put it in an envelope specific to them.
• Why are you interested in their company
• Why you would be a good fit for the position
• ASK for the interview - Let them know your availability for an onsite interview.
• Electronic Profile?
• If you have your resume and profile out on LinkedIn or a personal website, you can present a Contact Card directing them where they can find your resume and other information about yourself.

4.  What to Expect

Have a Plan and stick to it!

• It's going to be a mad house.  Lots of companies, people, and noise.  Don't let that scare you and don't give up!  

5.  Leave a lasting Impression!

• You will have limited time to IMPRESS - so prepare your "Elevator Pitch"/"2 Minute Commercial" about YOU!
• You want to stick out in their minds and be rememberable!  (In a Good Way)
• Firm Handshake!
• Be sure to shake the hands of each and every person you speak with when you introduce yourself, and when you leave!
• Speak Clearly and Concisely - Be Confident!
• Thank them for their time and let them know you look forward to hearing from them to schedule an interview.

In the end - Relax, be yourself and have fun!  

This is your future!