“May the Force be with you.”

Only ONE day until the Fall Career Fair!  You’ve worked hard to prepare for this great opportunity; now it’s your time to shine!  Oh, and don’t forget to follow up with those employers who piqued your interest…

• Grab their business card at the career fair so you have their contact information
• Send an e‐mail or hand‐written letter thanking them for their time and including a copy of your resume
• We hear from employers that many students do not do this, so it’s a great way to stand out.

Don’t forget to bring the following to the fair:

• Copies of your resume (15-20 depending on number of employers you’d like to approach). Keep in mind many employers are unable to take your resume, but instead will instruct you to apply online.
• A smile, strong handshake and positive attitude.
• Your 30-second infomercial to introduce yourself and highlight your qualifications.
• Information about the organizations that you will be approaching. Never ask an employer, “What do you do?”
• A hardcover notepad portfolio and/or professional briefcase for resumes, company information, business cards and questions to ask the employer.

Day 3:

What NOT to wear…

Remember, these employers are visiting other career fairs on different campuses so it’s important to make a great first and lasting impression.  While they understand you’re going in and out of classes and other obligations, this is your opportunity to set yourself apart and sell yourself.  Dress to impress!

Day 4:

“Show me the money!”

There are over many employers registered to attend the fair and they are there because they specifically want to talk to YOU!  This means you’re just that much closer to landing your dream job, and earning more money!

Day 5:

“You know, like nunchuck skills, bowhunting skills, computer hacking skills… Girls only want boyfriends who have great skills. Forget flower bouquets and work on developing some captivating skills.”  – Napoleon Dynamite

So, what are your skills?  Master your 30-60 second infomercial or “elevator speech”!  Oh, and leave out your “computer hacking skills.”

This will arm you with all you need to begin an intelligent and effective conversation with employers.  If you’re not sure what to say, visit Career Services and we will help you!  Here are some ideas of what to include:

• Where you are now? (degree, program, year in college)
• Where you have been? (career-related experience, leadership experience, part-time work experience)
• Where you are going? (future goals)
• A question for the employer

Here’s a great example:

“Hello. My name is Lucy and I will graduate in May 2012 with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in English. As a student here at OSU, I have had the chance to gain leadership and organizational skills through my involvement in the English Club. In addition, I have worked for two years as a server at the Annex allowing me to gain valuable customer service experience. I am seeking a full-time position in the field of public relations for next summer. Can you share with me any opportunities within your organization that might fit with my skills and experience?”

I’m here…now what?

• Locate your chosen employers on the map
• Offer your hand for a professional handshake (one shake)
• Begin the conversation with your 30 second infomercial
• Ask the employer a question relating to your career goal
• Ask the employer for next steps
• Be energetic – be your best, as refreshed as possible

Day 7:

In your “Pursuit of happyness” make sure you set your expectations…

You are responsible for making the most of a job fair. This means that you should begin with clearly defined and realistic expectations. You may not receive a job offer at the fair, but it is realistic to assume you will make a significant number of employer contacts. For most candidates, success will depend on effective follow‐up after the fair.

Be aware of employer expectations…

Some employers are only collecting resumes; some may not be able to accept any resumes and may ask you to submit application materials online. Some are building/assessing an applicant pool; some are ready to fill specific vacancies.

Some will expect you to express your interest by already knowing about their organization; some will view this day as a career fair/information gathering process. Most employers will expect you will follow up if you are interested. All employers expect you to be professional, willing to initiate conversation and able to highlight your strengths.

Did you know…

You can attend the Career Services Career Seminars which are offered every term!   Join us on Monday, October 22nd from 1pm-2pm for our “Beaver’s Wanted: How to have Success at the Career Fairs” seminar in . Not able to make that time? Then check out on our website ways to prepare for the Career Fair.

Day 10:

What to ask employers…

First and foremost, questions should be natural. Be yourself. Don’t rifle your questions; maintain a flow.

Here are some sample questions to ask organization representatives:

• What kind of entry‐level positions exist within your company?
• Do you offer internships?
• If so, what percentage of interns are offered positions after graduation?
• What does your company consider the 5 most important qualities in an employee?
• What courses do you suggest in order to be a successful candidate?
• What personality traits are important for success in your company?
• What made you chose this company?
• How long have you been with the company?
• What goals does your company have for the next five years and beyond?
• What are the next steps in the hiring process?