Find out who’s coming so that you can visit employers that are of interest to you first.
Put together a one-minute pitch about yourself, your major, your interests and what you have to offer. Have a few good questions ready to ask employers – they’ll demonstrate that you’ve done your homework on the jobs and the employer.
First impressions are important – make a good one. Wear your best school clothes. If you are interested in internships or degree-related positions, go an extra step and wear professional attire. Every contact with an employer is like a mini-interview. Never take food or drink to an employer’s table and get rid of chewing gum.
Generate a list of questions based on your information needs. You might ask, “I will be graduating in June. What variety of entry-level positions are available for new graduates?” or “What do I need to know about the application process?” or “Are internships available?”
If you are seeking information to make a career decision, you might ask, “I’m thinking of majoring in anthropology. Does your organization consider liberal arts and sciences majors?” or “What is a typical career title for a liberal arts and sciences major within your organization?”
Bring copies of your resume with you. If you don’t have a resume, check out the Career Center’s workshop on resume preparation or consult their on-line resume preparation program. Some employers may direct you to submit your resume via fax, e-mail, or postal service. If this is the case, be sure to get appropriate contact information – name and title of contact, and e-mail, postal address or phone number as appropriate. It’s a good idea to get a business card.
Bring your calendar. Employers will sometimes schedule an interview on the spot. Bring a notepad and pen. Make note of the names of the people you’ve met. If you don’t get an appointment, ask what happens next and when.
When you arrive, you will be given a map showing the location of participating employers. Each has an assigned table and will have print, video, or electronic information to share. If there are several students waiting to speak to a representative, you may want to go talk to another employer and come back later. Try to speak with employers rather than simply picking up literature and walking away.
Follow up with employers if you haven’t heard from them.
Some employers will ask you to complete an application form. A pocket application is available in the student employment office in the career center (University Services Building Room 402, 617 S.W. Montgomery St.). It will help you to gather the information you need to fill out an application.