In this post I will highlight Career Fair resources, how to prepare, and of course, how to stand out. Now is when it really counts, as many of us are searching for our first jobs out of college. So let's do this!
Preparation
One of my favorite all-time quotes is from UCLA coach John Wooden who said, "Failing to prepare is preparing to fail." This quote was the theme of my title from my post last year on how to prepare for the Career Fair. Preparation is the name of the game here. A career fair is very much about what you do before the fair. If you prepare well enough, you should walk around like the "boss" you are. Here are a few tips to ensure that you will have an effective experience at the 2015 Tufts Fall Career Fair.
- Use your previous career fair experience to instill some confidence; this isn't your first rodeo!
- Update your resume, get it critiqued in the Career Center (there's still time!) and make sure your LinkedIn profile is in good shape
- Download the Career Fair App and check the list of companies attending. Research the companies and "favorite" the ones that interest you (your favorites will appear on the map in the app)
- Know your personal brand to differentiate yourself from other candidates and craft an elevator pitch, tailored to each organization, that will serve as your introduction; practice your elevator pitch out loud before the fair
- Dress swaggy (check weather.com to determine outwear)
During the Fair
Career Fairs can be really overwhelming. With the 187 companies registered this year you will want to avoid feeling lost or wandering around aimlessly, like a lost kid in a supermarket (the worst feeling in the world!). If you find yourself in this situation don't panic. Head to the front of Gantcher and find the Career Center Information Table. A friendly career advisor will assess the situation and pump you up with the necessary courage to get back out there. One suggestion is to scout out tables before you approach - walk by to see who is representing (human resources reps, alumni?) the organization and pick the individual who you'll approach.How to stand out
Now that I've covered some of the basics of achieving success at the Career Fair, here are a few steps that will take you the extra mile. Everyone at the Career Fair is trying to make a good impression, so it's important to know how to differentiate yourself.
- Swag business stationary and folder: your hard copy resume should be copied on resume paper (it's a bit heavier than printer paper and has a nice look and texture) and you should be carrying your resumes in a portfolio or folder (no rips and tears please)
- Thoughtful questions for recruiters (Think outside the box): what do you say to an employer after you've introduced yourself? In doing research before the fair, you'll likely come up with some legitimate questions about the job or internship, geographic location of the position, or the organization. A career fair is the perfect opportunity to demonstrate your interest in the job by asking an intelligent question. Just don't monopolize the employer's time
- Ask for a business card so you can follow-up
- Master the follow-up thank-you email: reference the Tufts Career Fair (they've probably been to many fairs by this time), and thank them for attending. Mention something from your conversation that will help them remember you, and attach your resume. Now they have the electronic version
- Apply for the job or internship online. Just because you dropped your resume at the table doesn't mean you've applied for the job
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Alright, alright, alright seniors. It's time to put the game plan in action. The Career Fair is a great place for us to hit the floor running while looking for the next step in our career paths. If you don't see a company of interest, still come to the Career Fair. It's great practice, and networking is always a good thing.
Carpe Diem,
Nicole Brooks
Class of 2016
