Job Fair Etiquette
How to Make Them Work for You
Employers are making increasing use of job fairs to attract and screen candidates. They offer an opportunity for a superficial contact with hundreds of candidates and the chance to select a few for intensive follow-ups.
As a candidate, job fairs are an important method of making an in-person contact with organizations already of interest to you and of applying to other companies you may discover at the fair. Here are some tips to make job fairs work for you.
Learn Who's Coming Ahead of Time
Generally, you can learn the names of most, if not all, the employers who plan to participate. Narrow the list down to those of most interest and begin to research their products/services and employment needs.
Contact Employers of Special Interest Ahead of the Fair
Send a strong letter expressing your interest adding a resume slanted to their needs to all companies in which you have a special interest. Point out that you will be in touch with them at the fair-- and are looking forward to it.
Prepare a 45-second Summary of Your Qualifications.
Job fairs offer only brief contact with organizations so be prepared to make the most of your time. Work up an interesting verbal summary of your background, achievements, and career interests so you won't be fumbling for words at the wrong time.
Dress the Part
The first impression you create is critical so dress in conservative, professionally-tailored, well-pressed clothing. How you look will play a big part in determining employer interest. Check out this Dress to Impress video by Florida Institute of Technology.
Arrive Early and Plan to Stay Late
Get there when it opens and head right away for your favorite employer. Make sure the employer knows that it is #1 on your list. Then follow through with other employers you like. Use the balance of the day to contact organizations which are less familiar but look interesting.
Take the Right Things with You
Take along a supply of resumes, they are important even with companies whom you contacted ahead of time. Also bring a list of references, but if you give out names of references at the fair be sure to contact those people immediately afterwards to notify them that they may be hearing from XYZ Company. Carry an attractive pen, note pad, etc.
Know What You Are Going to Ask
Try to have one or two questions in mind for each employer. The questions should reflect the research you have done on the employer and your interest.
Learn What's Going to Happen Next
As you leave each employer, learn what happens next and what, if anything, you should do to advance your candidacy.
