Planning on attending a career fair? Here’s what you need to bring and what to practice.
Step 1: Revise Your Resume
- Make sure your resume has all your latest experiences, certifications, and skills
- Come to the CCO during drop-in hours (M-F, 10am-4pm) and optimize you resume structure and phrasing for the job market.
- Check out our Resume Series right here on the CCO blog for a step-by-step guide to resume effective creation and 8 sample resumes.
Step 2: Review, Select, Research Employers
- Review: Take a look at the companies attending the career fair. A list can be found in your career fair handbook or on myCCO.
- Select: Identify the companies you would be interested in applying to.
- Research: Research the history, products, and available positions of your target companies. List out at least one intelligent question you would like to ask the company reruiter.
What NOT to ask a recruiter →
Step 3: Think About What to Say, What to Do
- Greeting: Think about how you intend to greet recruiters. Keep it as short as possible. A smile, confident step forward, firm handshake, and simple “Hello” is a great start.
How to Give the Perfect Handshake → - Speaking: Practice your 30-second elevator pitch to express your unique qualities to an employer.
How to Create a 30-Second Elevator Pitch →
Step 4: What to Bring
- Enough copies of your resume, printed on resume paper
- A slim binder, folder, or professional pad holder to hold your resumes.
- A black or blue pen
Step 5: What to Wear
- Unless a ‘casual’ dress code is explicitly stated, opt to wear a dark colored suit (and a tie, for men).
Business Casual vs. Business Professional →
Check out Our Pinterest Board on Professional Dress
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