subject: Attending a Career Fair? Seven Ways For Navigating & Owning the "Job Fair" [print this page] Attending a Career Fair? Seven Ways For Navigating & Owning the "Job Fair"
1. Take it seriously. Unless you are a visible art major and it is a "casual career honest," dress well--no jeans, tight clothes or white sneakers. Think: Summer's over, whether or not it's still heat outside. Ties, jackets, dress pants, dark shoes and socks for men. Shirts that do not show the navel and skirts or pants that do not defy gravity for women. Err on the side of conservatism. "She wore WHAT?" is usually a perennial discussion among recruiters. (Additionally, breath mints are forever in vogue. Chewing gum at the fair or smoking outside--unhealthy idea.)
2. Bring copies of your resume, however don't be disappointed if the employer prefers not to take it. Companies have rules and internal procedures regarding applicants. Sometimes, these rules can dictate that they can not take resumes. (Did you know some employers are legally needed to preserve any comments they write on your resume at a career honest?")Most employers can need you to use for positions online to be considered as a political candidate applicant. Therefore do not be turned off by the road, "To use for a grip, move to our website."
3. Recognize who you wish to speak to beforehand, and have one thing attention-grabbing to say. Possibilities are good that you've got heard a heap concerning the elevator pitch, and for good reason: You will have underneath 30 seconds to introduce yourself to employers.Here's a cheat sheet to grasp what to mention: Each good introductions ought to embrace 2 pieces of knowledge:? A outline of who you're and what you're wanting for, and? An ice breaker that shows you're acquainted with the organization's project and services--and culture. (I often recommend looking out Google News by organization name, reviewing websites, and reviewing employer profiles like Hoovers.com, Vault.com, and WetFeet.com.) Several job seekers don't do this, and taking the time to read beforehand will help you stand out. Tongue tied?
4. Do not be afraid to spend time with the "lonely employer." Job fairs can feel like popularity contests with heaps of candidates in one line, and alternative booths that are nearly empty. Stop by and say hello to the quiet tables, too. You'll be shocked at what they have to offer, and it will be a great time to get one-on-one recommendation from the employer's perspective.
5. Get to know different job seekers at the event--particularly when you're in line. Your next lead could return from the person standing in front of you or behind you in line. Making friends with others curious about the identical company may seem self-defeating, but it is not--especially on condition that you'll have different interests, skills, and expertise in terms of job function. Keep in mind the common job search rule that over sixty% of job offers are the direct result of networking!
6. When you speak to employers, keep your conversation focused and brief. Introduce yourself with a little handshake. Job fairs typically feature long lines of candidates, and will be intimidating employers. Keep your ears open as candidates before you talk to employers, and think about introducing the employer to the candidate behind you in line if the discussion veers along a path of mutual interest. You demonstrate you're a team player after you introduce your "competition" with ease and gift their interests, "This is often Ben and he is also fascinated by brand management." After you demonstrate a high level of cooperation and courtesy, you'll build an employer additional willing to share their own business card--that, in flip, gives you a great vehicle to follow-up when the event.
7. Return early or keep late--and help employers or event organizers out if they are interested. Career fairs will be an exhausting endeavor for employers and honest exhibitors: Volunteering to help somebody out can be a very sensible method to urge your foot in the door later--and to remain prime of the employer's mind later.This is my career truthful "short list." What's yours?
