Career Fair results depend on level of preparation
Wednesday’s Career Fair will be a good networking opportunity, but students need to come prepared, Derek Jack, assistant director of Career Services, said.
“We get really good job placement results from this,” Jack said. However, students need to get ready for the Career Fair to achieve the results they want, he said.
“Someone just showing up is going to feel overwhelmed,” Jack said. “The worst mistake a student can make is to say, ‘Hi, I’m an English major, what can you do for me?’ It turns employers off.”
Jack said to visit the Career Services Web site and research the employers before attending the Career Fair. With the largest USU Career Fair yet, at 180 employers, Jack said students need to narrow their focus to companies that they would like to work with and need to come knowing what the employer is about.
A professional resume is very important, Jack said.
“Have a resume that’s easily accessible, like in a folder, available to the employer, and have a place to put the cards or information they give you,” he said. “When employers ask for your resume, you shouldn’t have to dig through your bag for a copy to give them.”
Career Services offers drop-in resume editing every day from 1:30-2:30 p.m., but they are extending their hours on Monday from 1:30-3:30 p.m.
Students should dress for the job they would like, Jack said, since looking the part is key. Men don’t have to wear a suit, but should wear a tie and women should be in professional business dress.
“This is a way for employers to increase awareness of their organization, identify potential employees and fill job openings,” Jack said. “It’s a good way for students to familiarize themselves with the jobs, practice networking and apply directly for a job opening.”
Jack said many employers are holding interviews the next day so people looking for employment have an opportunity to network with people that are hiring soon.
However, he said even if students don’t get an interview immediately, the Career Fair should be viewed as a beginning of what could come. Students should make and keep contacts at the Career Fair because four out five jobs are gained through networking, Jack said.
When talking to potential employers, students should state their education, experience and what they know about the company.
“Know ahead of time what you are going to say,” Jack said.
“As you’re talking, especially if the employer is really interested, do not leave the conversation without having established how you get in contact with them,” Jack said. “Get a name and establish when and where you can contact them.”
Jack said another good opportunity for students to get to know the employers before others arrive is by being a student host. Students can sign up on the Career Services Web site. Being a student host allows students to get to know the employer on a more personal level before the crowd shows up, Jack said. They help the employer set up their booth and let them know where to go.
“Every employer has a slot to sign up for on the Web site, but they’re going fast,” Jack said.
Jack said USU holds the largest Career Fair in the state because employers see USU students as “more well-rounded and they have a good reputation.”
Students can visit Career Services for help with networking techniques, what to say and interview skills, Jack said.
“Everyone has skills they can bring to the table. This is an opportunity for students to find an employer they would like to work with long-term,” Jack said.
-dilewis@cc.usu.edu