Getting The Most Out of On & Off Campus Career Fair Opportunities

The Career and Internship Days and other career fair opportunities are great places to make connections with employers, gather information on companies, and to meet with the most employers in one place at one time. It is also an opportunity for employers to screen the greatest number of applicants at one time. With this in mind, you will need to work hard to stand out from the crowd. One of the Career Counselors in the Career Center can help you to develop yoUR Career Fair strategy. Check out the following tips and links:

Pre-Career Fair

• Meet with a Career Counselor to clarify your goals and refine your resume.
• Review the list of the companies that will be represented and prioritize them according to your interests.
• Be prepared with a stack of resumes and other materials you think employers will need.

During the Career Fair

• Dress professionally - "Khaki Casual" is fine (pressed shirt, tie and khaki pants for men and slacks or a skirt and a pressed shirt or sweater for women) unless you have been instructed otherwise to wear a suit or have a pre-arranged interview following the fair.
• Make the best use of your time by working with your priority list in contacting recruiters.
• Be prepared for questions from the recruiters at the booths. Your initial contact at the booth or table can be a crucial networking opportunity.
• When a recruiter gives you a business card, make a note on the back explaining what you talked about and your next step.

Post-Career Fair

• Follow-up, Follow-up, Follow-up!!! Send a thank you to the recruiters you interviewed with and the ones with which you spoke.
• See a Career Counselor to refine your follow-up materials.

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Questions? Email: careers@mail.rochester.edu