This document provides tips for networking effectively at a job fair, including how to present yourself, what to bring, and how to follow up afterwards. It advises preparing for the job fair by researching attending companies and customizing your resume for relevant positions. At the fair, the document suggests starting conversations positively, asking questions, and leaving a good impression without being overly aggressive. Follow up is also important, through thank you letters or notes to continue connections made at the fair. The overall goal is to stand out from other candidates in a professional manner.

1. How to Ace a Job FairWithout coming off like a used car salesman! Jennifer Fisher Graduate Retention Program Manager Fort Wayne Chamber of Commerce

2. Walk away with an understanding of good and bad networking skills Be prepared before you walk through the door! What not to wear Now what? How to handle following up even if you’re not interested

3. So where do we begin?

6. So why is this important?

11. Know who’s going to be at the job fair! Are they hiring? What industry are they in? What do you have to offer them?

16. Create your introduction Hi my name is __________________________ I’m a student at ____________________, studying __________________. I’m currently in my ____________ year. What do you do for _____________? How long have you been there? Do you like what you do? Are you currently doing any hiring or do you anticipate any in the near future?

17. Have your resume up to date. If you are interested in a position, research it and create a resume specific to it. Print on nice paper (not plain white copy paper). Make more than you think you’ll need. Carry them in a nice padfolio.

18. START WITH THE BASICS

19. ABC’s of Image Appearance Wardrobe clothing accessories Grooming hair skin nails makeup fragrance breath (don’t chew gum)

21. ABC’s of Image Behavior Etiquette Phone/email Manners Introductions Handshakes Civility Respectful behavior Consideration of others Attitude Positive attitude Self-confidence Self-esteem

22. ABC’s of Image Communication Verbal Speaking skills (avoid “Like” and “Um”) Grammar Vocabulary Presentation skills Nonverbal Posture Gestures Eye contact Facial expressions Listening skills Written Language Grammar Professionalism

24. Be a rock star in a business suit!

25. First Impressions How long does it take to make an impression? Within thirty secondspeople judge: economic level educational level social position level of sophistication ability to success By four minutesmost have made decisions about:trustworthiness compassion reliability Intelligence Capability Humility Friendliness confidence

26. Be a SUPER candidate

27. Not this guy!

28. It all starts with a great smile and a firm handshake!

34. Ask questions. Listen. Be interested. Answer questions. Don’t take all their time. Thank them.

37. How (NOT) to Work a Room Try to avoid coming off as aggressive Avoid getting into specifics about the salary and benefits you want You’ll want to leave an impression, just make sure it’s a good one! Don’t get distracted

41. “It was a pleasure speaking with you at the IPFW Career Fair yesterday. I enjoyed learning more about your company and the many opportunities available there. I welcome the opportunity to meet with you again to discuss my qualifications for your open positions. Thank you again for your time.”

44. You can’t win the lottery, if you don’t buy a ticket!

45. Questions

46. Thank You!!! Jennifer Fisher, Program Manager jfisher@fwchamber.org Graduate Retention Program Twitter:Jenfisherfw Blog: www.generationalsoup.com www.indianaintern.net