How to get the most from a Career Fair!

Are you planning on attending the Career Center’s Spring Career Fair next Thursday, March 7, 2013 from 1:00-4:00 in University Hall on the 7th floor? If you are, there are a few things you may want to know to best prepare:

·         Before the fair, research the different employers you might like to meet with. Employers attending are listed at http://www.montclair.edu/CareerServices/careerfairs/employer-directory.docx). You should find out what their businesses and products are, what they are most known for and who their competitors are. Knowing even a little information about a company can help especially when you meet their reps at the fair.

·         Treat your conversations with career fair reps as serious opportunities to network. Get business cards from the representatives you speak with, send thank you notes after the event and keep in mind that if an employer has paid to attend a fair, he or she is as interested in meeting you as you are in connecting with him or her!

·         Having your resume prepped and ready as well as a business cards or portfolio, if appropriate, can help decrease your nervousness because it can be your guide to talking about yourself with a representative.

·         Once you have the proper materials ready, it is crucial to make sure you yourself will convey the proper professional impression. When coming to the career fair be sure to be dressed professionally. Go to the company’s website and look for pictures of employees. If there are none, use your good judgement and “dress-up” in a suit or sport coat.

·         Most importantly, recognize that a company rep will understand if you are nervous –he or she was once a job hunter too—so, just be yourself and show what you have to offer!

For more helpful information and tips checkout our website http://www.montclair.edu/CareerServices as well as http://www.montclair.edu/CareerServices/careerfairs/index.html for more details about how to approach a career fair! Good luck!