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Job Fair Preparation
What is a Job Fair?
A job fair is an opportunity for employers and job seekers to interact with each other in an open setting. Job fairs are typically held in conference centers, hotels, on campus or at employer sites. Recruiters and/or hiring managers stand at tables with informational materials and are ready to talk with and evaluate candidates. An alternative to the "live" fair is the "virtual" fair where job seekers and employers connect online.Finding a Job Fair
Look for job fair announcements on the Career Center's Web site, check newspapers, employer websites, and Internet sites such as CareerJournal.com.Preparing for the Fair
- Obtain a list of participating employers and do research. Highlight the organizations in which you are most interested. Find out the organization's mission, their products or services, and what types of entry-level positions are available. You may find this information on the employer's Web site, in their annual report, by speaking with people who work there, or through the Chamber of Commerce.
- Prepare an error-free, professional résumé. Have your résumé reviewed before the fair. The Career Center offers a résumé critique service; simply e-mail your document as an attachment in MS Word format to careers@hood.edu and allow five business days for a reply.
- Purchase interview attire. The job fair is your opportunity to make a professional, polished first impression. Dress as you would for an interview. Men should wear a dark suit, tie and dress shoes. Women should wear a suit with dress shoes. Avoid excessive make-up, jewelry and fragrance.
- Prepare answers to interview questions. Be ready to explain why you chose your major, why you are interested in the organization, what type of position you are seeking and skills you wish to utilize.
- Prepare a brief "commercial." Be prepared to summarize your education, experience, strengths and accomplishments. Practice with a friend or Career Center staff person until it sounds natural.
- Develop questions to ask the employers. Asking questions will help you determine if the position or organization is right for you. Questions may include, "What do you like best about the organization?" or "Is there a training program for new employees?" Avoid questions about salary and benefits.
What to Expect
Job fairs can be very busy and you may stand in lines waiting to meet with employers. Expect to be evaluated or interviewed on the spot. Don't expect a job offer; your goal is to make an impression and get a second interview.What to Take
- Résumés. Bring copies for each employer you plan to meet with, plus several extras.
- Several pens and note pad for taking notes about each employer.
- Business case for your résumés and employer materials you collect.
- Professional portfolio that includes a collection of writing samples, artwork, transcripts, list of references, reference letters, or other documents which may be of interest to the employer.
Day of the Fair
- Arrive early so that you have time to meet with all of the employers in which you are interested.
- Refer to the directory of employers and find them on the event floor plan. Determine which organizations you will visit first. If you visit a table with an unusually long line, continue on and return when the line is shorter.
- Walk up to the table and introduce yourself with a smile and firm handshake. Have a copy of your résumé ready to hand to the employer and be prepared to perform your "commercial."
- Ask questions and take notes on the employers' responses.
- Obtain the business card or contact information of the persons with whom you speak. This will enable you to send a letter thanking them for their time and reiterating your interest in the organization and the position. Include another copy of your résumé with the thank you letter.