I. When Should You Attend a Job Fair?

The best time of day to attend a fair is early in the morning when the employers are fresh and alert. They have not heard the same questions over and over and are thus likely to spend more time with you. The reasons for attending may vary from gathering career information, to looking for internships, summer or permanent, full-time employment.

II. Understanding the Recruiters

The recruiters at a job fair are seldom the actual hiring managers. Their job is to review the candidates and locate persons who meet the basic qualifications of the organization in order to be referred for further consideration. The employer depends on the job fair representative to locate persons who could qualify for employment.

III. What to do At the Fair

Casual attire is acceptable, but business professional dress is

recommended for those seeking leads on employment.

¤ Walk around to become comfortable with each of the tables and their locations.

¤ Gather information about the employers of your choice prior to talking with a recruiter. This can be achieved by viewing their websites in advance or by walking by a table that may be busy and collecting literature. If the tables are quiet, you may want to work the room with a friend. Have the friend collect information for you so you won’t be caught off guard and unprepared to respond to the recruiters' questions before you are ready. Listen to what the recruiters are asking other candidates. These same questions may be asked of you, and you will be ready because you have had time to think about your responses.

¤ The amount of time you will have with the recruiter can vary from seconds to minutes. Use the short time you have to provide the employer with a clear and succinct description of exactly what you are looking for

¤ Now you are ready to go out on your own, loaded with information, prepared to give them your very best!

IV. Before You Leave

» Ask, “What is the next step?”

» Request a business card of the recruiter for future correspondence.

» Extend your hand, thank them for their time, and inform the recruiter that you look forward to hearing from them in the near future.

V. Follow-up

Stay in touch with the employers that interest you most; keep the lines of communication open. A thank you letter sent within a week of meeting the recruiters will help them to remember you.

» Thank them for taking the time to meet with you.

» Review key points that were discussed during your conversation.

» Explain how you would be an asset to the employer (address the keys points you discussed or from employer literature).

» Add new information that may not have been addressed during your quick meeting.

» Send a customized resume to reflect the skills you have to meet the needs of the employer.

» Check back after a few weeks to see if opportunities are available for you with their organization.