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SUCCESS
TIPS!

Do your homework to find out which companies are represented. 

Research each company you plan to visit, so when you talk to the company representative you are knowledgeable about the company and what positions/internships are available. Go to Career Services’ webpage and click on the Expo graphic button on the right at www.FresnoStateCareers.com to locate a quick list of attending employers. To obtain more detailed information, log into MonsterTRAK and click on the “Career Fairs” link.

 

Make sure your resume has been proofread and is ready to sell your skills.

Make sure you have a professional resume and a minimum of 50 copies on bond paper for the event. Need help writing and/or formatting a resume? Try Career Services' OptimalResume, our on-line resume writing package. Consult with professionals in Career Services to make sure your resume markets you effectively.

 

Prepare your 60-second advertisement.

Your ad should be a two-to-three line script about you to generate interest from the employer within the first few minutes of the conversation. Include your name, class year and interest in full-time, internship/co-op positions or career exploration.  Follow with your career interest, your major(s), and why you came to the company’s table.  Be professional, smile and stay focused on the company.

 

Maximize your time and efforts by planning a strategy.

Career Fair statistics show that up to 49% of candidates who prepare in advance can receive interviews at the fair, and 65% of those candidates receive job offers. Therefore, make sure you visit companies you are planning on applying and interviewing with after the Expo. Check company websites and obtain company lists and booth locations when you walk in the Expo to plan your company visits.

 

Prepare to dress professional, but wear comfortable shoes.

Your meeting with company representatives is your first impression to the rest of the company. If you do not impress them the first time you meet, you may not get a second chance! Plan what you are going to wear, and be sure everything is neat, clean and pressed. Simple and conservative attire is usually best.

 

Ask company representatives relevant career-related questions.

 
  • What types of career opportunities does your organization offer?
  • What majors does your organization typically hire? What kinds of positions do you offer in my major?
  • What are the job responsibilities for that type of position?
  • How did you get into the organization/career field? What is your background? How does it relate to the position?
  • Could I set up a time to visit you at your workplace to talk more about what you do?
  • Do you have co-op, internship or summer job opportunities for someone in my major?
  • Do you know of other contacts who might be helpful to me?
  • May I contact you if I need more information?
  • What type of products (or services) does your company manufacture, sell, service or provide?
  • Do you have any description of current openings at your company?
  • Do you have any literature describing your company?
  • What are the main skills or characteristics that you look for in an employee?
  • Could you look at my resume and tell me what you like about it, and what you would suggest that I change?
  • What skills do you find most marketable in your industry today?

 

Follow-up on contacts made.

Collect business cards from employers that you interact with at Expo.  After you collect each card, write a personal reminder of the representative on the back of the business card. Within a week, write a note to the representative to let them know that you enjoyed meeting them and to check the status of your resume and possible interview date.

 

Gain valuable experience.

Keep in mind that all is not lost if you don't land an interview or job. Career fairs offer great practice in perfecting networking and interviewing skills. Talk to as many people as you can; never underestimate the value of face time with recruiters from leading companies. And, just as importantly, listen to them. Pay attention to the questions you're being asked and to the kind of information they're offering. It's impossible to leave without something of value.