Tips on How to Succeed at a Career Fair

By Liz Wassmann

1) Do your research

You absolutely need to read about the companies that will be at the fair before going. A lot of the frustration with the company variety stems from a lack of understanding of what the companies really do.

Rather than going to every booth to figure out what the company is hiring for, map out which booths you want to visit and which are a waste of your time. Consult the list of companies on the Career Center website before you attend, or refer to the packets handed out at the door detailing the companies present.

Also, enter the fair with an idea of exactly what you are looking for, whether it is an internship or full-time position, paid or unpaid. The entire process will be faster and more enjoyable for all involved if you do a little legwork beforehand.

2) Dress the part

When looking for a job opportunity, dressing the part is extremely important — although dressing to the nines may not be as essential as students think.

As in a job interview, it's always important to make a great first impression, and employers simply want to see their future hires looking clean, groomed and presentable. Business suits, ties and high heels may not be necessary — unless, of course, your research shows that the job and company you're pursuing require you to dress professionally.

Business casual is always a safe bet, and make sure your clothes are clean and pressed. Feel free to wear a suit jacket and dress shoes if you wish, but the ties and pearls are not necessary — neither are leather "résumé holders."

3) Relax and be confident

A relaxed and confident manner is vital. In all probability, this first two-minute meeting will not be remembered by the company, so loosen up!

Michael DeMaria, who recruited for Northwestern Mutual, explained what recruiters are really looking for at job fairs. "When I'm helping out with recruiting, I look for candidates that are genuinely excited about the whole process and convey self-confidence," he said.

The brief conversation with a recruiter at a career fair is not at all a formal interview — just an exchange of information between student and company to see if the job is the right fit. Have your elevator pitch ready, but don't stress too much: just show how excited you are to learn about the job opportunity!

Contact Elizabeth Wassman at ewassman@scu.edu.