This document provides guidance for career fair preparation and personal branding. It discusses establishing an initial connection with a firm representative with a handshake, eye contact and smile. It advises having an introductory statement that identifies yourself and what value you can provide. The key message should focus on why a company should believe in you and what you can do for them. Effective communication at career fairs includes showing enthusiasm and interest in the organization. A sample 30-60 second pitch is provided that highlights the speaker's relevant background and qualifications and why they are interested in the company.

1. Career Fair / Personal Brand
Presented by Michael T. Breslin
Lally Office of Career Management and Professional Development
9/16/2015

2. • NSBE / SHPE Career Fair
• JobLink
• Practice
• Career Fair prep notes
Agenda

3. “…a firm handshake, good eye contact, a
smile…”
Our ritual beginning…

4. “Hi, my name is ______,
and I help _______.”
…with a twist

5. RPI Career Fair

6. • Claim – "Here's what I can do for you. Here's
the value I can deliver to your organization."
• Credibility – "Here's why you should believe
me."
The message distilled to two points

7. “No one expected their spoken pitches to
perform better.”

8. • Why are you interested in the organization
you’re talking to?
• Be enthusiastic. This is not the time to be laid
back.
Career Fair communication tips

9. 30-60 Second Sell
Add all of this up

10. What do you bring?
How do you dress?
Very Bad Things
Other notes

11. “I grew up in Seattle, but moved here to attend university. I’m a
junior this year with a major in accounting and a minor in
communications. I know accounting today is much more than
numbers in a box so I felt my communications courses would
prepare me for the demands of client service. I’m a member of
student government serving as co-chair of the community outreach
committee, and in that role I’ve organized projects for the United
Way and Habitat for Humanity. I’ve researched your company and I
know you offer the resources of a ‘Big 4’ with the personal touch of
a smaller firm and I believe that combination will give me the best
opportunity to contribute and grow my career in the long run.”
Sample pitch