Attending a Job Fair

Job fairs can be scary at first walking into a room of people you don't know that could be potential employers, but with a few tips it'll be a breeze!

What should I bring?

• Resume 
• Pen
• Your Smile and Personality!

What should I expect?

Typically, numerous employers sign up to come to the job fair and set up a table to talk to students. In my experience the tables are numbered and maps are provided to help you navigate your way around the room to tables of interest. Upon arriving you should sign in at the desk out front where they will provide you with a name tag and map of the floor plan. After checking in you are free to wander and talk to potential employers!

The employers at the booths are friendly and there to talk to YOU! So you should talk with them about their facility, available jobs, what they look for in an employee, etc. You're goal is to be personable and charming while portraying some of your best qualities!

Tips for Success:

Dress for Success: You should be dressed in business casual, looking professional and serious about talking to employers!

Be Early: Arrive early in order to be fully prepared and insure that you aren't waiting in line after the fair opens!

Take Initiative: Be firm and persistent speaking to employers and shaking their hand first. Show interest and professionalism by inquiring about their organization!

Be Enthusiastic: Show excitement to be there! This is one of the main characteristics employers look for in potential candidates. Smile! :)

Ask Questions: Prepare questions that are important to you or some areas that you may have inquiries about. Engaging potential employers makes you more memorable and they become more interested in you!

Practice talking about yourself: Sometimes it is difficult to talk yourself up to other people. In this case you should practice a short spiel about yourself to tell the employers at the job fair. In a few sentences brainstorm ideas and talents you want to make known and practice discussing those topics.    
  

Follow some of these helpful tips, smile, be yourself, and relax! Job fairs seem scary but if you follow these tips you'll be prepared and ready to conquer any fair!