Tips for Career Expo

Before the EXPO

Research, research, research!! Go through the list of employers and determine which companies you have an interest in. Then, learn about them. Visit their website and find out everything you can about their organization. Then, come up with a few questions to ask recruiters about their company. Asking specific questions about a certain company will show the recruiter that you have done your homework.
Clean up your resume. Have it critiqued in the Career Services office or if you are crunched for time, have a few friends that you trust look it over. You don’t want to give out a resume with typos!

During the EXPO

When you arrive at the fair, walk around to get a feel for the atmosphere. Take some time to watch other people interact with employers (even the ones you are interested in). When you feel confident, then approach recruiters.
Don’t waste your time or the recruiters’ time. Come prepared!
Be confident while talking to employers and smile! It makes a difference!
Introducing yourself is tricky. Here’s some hints:
Tell the recruiter your name, year in school, and what type of position you are interested in (i.e. full-time, internship, etc.). Next, tell them your major, your career interests, and why you came to this particular company’s table. Offer a firm handshake and have good eye contact. Be prepared to present your resume.
Ask about career opportunities in your area of interest.
When appropriate, display your knowledge of the company and ask relevant questions.
Be enthusiastic and demonstrate positive verbal and non verbal communication at all times.
Avoid discussing salary and benefits; instead, focus on what you can offer the company.
Show the recruiters that you have the qualifications their company is looking for AND you are a good candidate for their company.
Answer all questions honestly. If the recruiter asks for your GPA, tell them. Don’t make any promises or excuses.
Request a business card from each person you speak with.
Make notes while the conversation is still fresh in your mind. After you walk away from a recruiter, find a quiet corner and make some notes to yourself about the interaction.
Ask questions! Some good ones to ask:
- What positions are presently available in your organization?
- What opportunities are there for people with a background in (your major) in this company?
- What skills/qualifications are required for this position(s)?
- When will this position be available? What is the hiring process?
- Are job descriptions available? How can I receive job descriptions?
- What is the application process?
- What opportunities for growth are available with your company?
- What qualities and types of experience are you looking for?

After the EXPO

Spend the evening after the EXPO recopying any notes you took and writing thank you notes. You should send a thank you note to each recruiter that you spoke with.
In your letter say you’re interested in working for the company, if you are, and enclose another resume.
Make sure you have the correct spelling for the first and last name of the person to whom you send the thank-you letters (This is one reason for requesting a business card from each person with whom you speak).