Making the Most out of a Job Fair

You saw a sign for an upcoming job fair, and think it might be a good idea to see what it’s all about. Someone there must be hiring so there is a good chance you’ll walk out of there with a job offer. Right? Wrong! Just showing up at a job fair does not guarantee you anything-in fact, it can make you completely forgettable to an employer. Here are some tips to making sure you get noticed at a job fair:

• Define your goals and aspirations before you get to the fair. What are you hoping to accomplish? What type of position are you looking to hold within a company? What career would be most fulfilling for you? It can be helpful to outline concrete goals for yourself (today I will set up 3 informational interviews).

• Do your homework! Research the companies that will be at the fair that you are interested in. Representatives from those organizations will be impressed that you took the time to see what their company is all about. In addition, showing you have an interest in their company will make you more memorable when they return to their office and are sifting through a mountain of resumes.

• Practice your pitch! Rehearse a 30 second commercial about yourself that highlights your best qualities. Think about what employers are looking for in a good worker and emphasize how your work ethic and personality would be a good fit for their organization.

• Write down questions! Employers want to know you are interested in their company, so come prepared with a list of questions written out beforehand that show you are genuinely looking for more information.

• Come prepared! Bring enough copies of your resume for everyone that will be at the fair, and make sure to use resume paper. If you know of specific companies you want to talk to at the fair, tailor your resume for that particular organization.

• Look and act like a professional! Conduct yourself as you would in a formal interview, and show enthusiasm for what you are doing. Let the employer see how your positive personality will fit in their organization.

• Gear up for round 2! Don’t be shy about asking if the company would be willing to partake in an informational interview. In addition, bolster up your list of contacts so that after the fair, you can network, network, network.

Remember, the time and preparation you put into a job fair can be the difference in getting you that job you want. Make the most out of it!

Stop by and schedule an appointment with us:
Career Services
215-646-7300 x230
careerservices@gmc.edu
Campbell Hall