Job Fair PreparationLearning the art of networking

Fall 2013

Prepare the PitchElevator Pitch-develop and practiceWho are you?What are your strongest skills?Where do you want to work?

(Industry/Company)Research the selected company or companies.Think about how your skills meet the

employers’ needs. Practice communicating this message with a

friend.

Prepare the PrintPrepare your resume (Targeted is best! Don’t

confuse your resumes when handing them out.)

Take resumes printed on resume paper.Take a list of references on resume paper.Print about 40 business cards from a kit to

distribute at fair.

Prepare Your Online BrandClean up your social media, facebookCreate a Linked In account with picture.Develop your personal work history.Highlight skills you want to target for next

job.Request recommendations from colleagues,

co-workers, employers.Networking is a two way street. (Don’t be

selfish.)

Perform with FocusRefer to CCN Document Library – Dress for

Success.Dress the same as you would for an interview.Turn off your cell phone. (Focus!)Arrive early and pick your top 3 to 5 recruiters to

target for discussion. You can speak to others after you meet your top choices.

Speak clearly and confidently, firm handshake, good eye contact, give name, major, and tell recruiter why you are interested in his company. Review the CCN Document Library – The Hello.

The Recruiter MeetingFocus on the recruiter. Tell the recruiter something interested you just learned

about his company from your research (before the fair).Tell the recruiter about the specific position you are

interested in pursuing. Ask about available opportunities.Learn more about a “day in the life” of someone with

that job description in that specific company.Discuss internship or summer job opportunities.Inquire about the application process.Offer recruiter a copy of your resume and business

card.

Ask Questions to Demonstrate Interest What are common career paths in this

organization?What is the training program for new hires?How would you describe your ideal candidate

for this position?What advice would you give an applicant?(Write down the answers. You will need them

for your follow up contact).

Record the Contact Information

Make sure you get the name, title, address, email address, and phone number of each recruiter, with whom you have a conversation.

Ask for available literature and business cards.Ask about follow up contact.Thank the recruiter for attending the fair and for

taking time to speak with you.Stop after each table and write some notes for

your follow up contact. (Focus-Be Organized.)

After the Job FairFollow up is critical. (Email or snail mail within

3 to 5 days.)Write a letter expressing your interest in the

company and what they have to offer. Mention something the recruiter said that

increased your interest in the company.Thank the employer for attending the fair and

for speaking with you about employment opportunities.

Include an updated resume and link to your Linked In account.

PersistStay positive about what you have to offer an

employer.Continue to practice your networking skills

for the next opportunity. (It could pop up when you least expect it.)

Be prepared with business cards at all times.Research CCN Documents for more

information. Information for this PowerPoint obtained from attached CCN Document,

“Making the Most of the Event”