The CareerMarketplace Summer 2008 Job Fair

You can still view the Attendee List View the list

Missed the Event? Check out the Virtual Career Fair! View event map

What to Bring

Cover Letter & Resume:

• Update your resume showing recent achivements, certifications, promotions, etc.
• Make sure resume content reflects your current skills and experience in your chosen field.
• Create an individualized cover letter for each resume.
• Check grammar and spelling before your print.

Create a Portfolio Containing:

• Printed examples of your work
• Published work
• Certifications
• Recommendations from coworkers or personal references

Red Hot Techniques to Job Fair Success

1. Make a List
• Check the event's Attendee List to determine which employers you want to meet.
• Research company information through company profiles, literature, and web sites.
• Read current job postings to learn more about what the company is hiring for.
2. Be Prepared
   • Print several copies of your resume to give to employers on your list. Have extra copies as a backup.
   • Have current contact information for references and previous employers.
   • Bring a pen to fill out applications
3. Dress Professionally
   • Business casual attire (trousers, button-down dress shirt, dress shoes) is always appropriate.
     • You will be doing a lot of standing and walking - make sure you wear comfortable, yet professional shoes.
   • Avoid casual attire including: denim, t-shirts, sweatshirts, tank tops, shorts, and baseball-hats
   • Clothing should be conservative - avoid low cut tops, shirt skirts, and low slung pants
4. Split Up
   • Visit employers separately even if your friend(s) are in the same industry
   • Keep conversation with friends to a minimum in the venue
   • Meet in a quiet area to compare notes and refer each other to employers who best meet their strengths and experience.
5. Be Courteous
   • Turn off your cell phone in the venue
     • If you are expecting a call, excuse yourself to the lobby and return to the booth when your call is complete.
     • Take off your Bluetooth. It creates an unnecessary distraction.
   • Don't fill out applications at the employer's booth. Utilize any designated job seeker areas to complete required paperwork.
   • Avoid ALL gossip until you leave the venue. This especially includes restrooms and parking lots. You never know who may be listening.
6. Follow Up
   • Ask the employer for their business card to ensure accurate contact information
   • Find out the best method of contact (i.e. e-mail, telephone, etc.) for follow up.
   • Send a thank you note immediately following the event

Do’s and Don’ts of Interviewing

Do:

• Relax
• Be engaging:
     Offer up your firmest handshake
     Smile
     Make eye contact
• Sit up straight
• Take a drink if offered
• Speak up - but never interrupt
• Sell yourself as a problem-solver
• Be honest- Don't say you can do things you can't do
• Don't freak out if you make a mistake
• Have questions of your own
• Be patient yet persistent
• When negotiating- prove you know the regional salary range and provide reasons for your desired salary
• Be confident in your skills and experience

Don't:

• Speak negatively about previous work experiences, bosses, teachers, etc.
• Talk about your minimum salary expectations at the beginning of the interview.  If asked, respond that you would like to know more about the position before talking about salary.
• Talk about hot topics of conversation (politics and other controversial topics)
• Talk about your nationality, age, health or medical history or marital status