The document provides tips for effectively networking at a job fair, including dressing professionally, preparing questions for employers, and following up after the event. It emphasizes the importance of introducing yourself with a "one-minute commercial" highlighting your relevant skills and interests, asking questions to learn about opportunities, and obtaining business cards to follow up. Employers appreciate polite, well-prepared candidates who make a good impression and express genuine interest in the company.

1. Job Fair Etiquette How to make a Job Fair work for you….

2. Employer Expectations (Biggest things to avoid during a Job Fair) Lack of focus and not knowing what type of job you’re looking for Not dressing professionally Not bringing resumes Lacking knowledge of the company Lacking interest in the company and/or position Asking about salary Not asking any questions of the HR reps Only grabbing free stuff Not making eye contact Lacking communication skills Not willing to relocate Not bringing anything to write on Giving a weak handshake Not taking the time to fill out the application while you’re there

3. Top 3 Things Employers Typically Discuss at Job Fairs Company benefits Information on current job openings General information about the company

4. How to Prepare for a Job Fair Create a list of employer’s you’d like to meet with at the job fair. Know why you want to work for the company (if you don’t know they won’t either) Prepare a “one-minute commercial” as a way to sell yourself to an employer. Preparation, Enthusiasm and Energy will get you noticed!

5. What should be included in your “one-minute commercial?” This is a great way to introduce yourself Your name Your career status (job searching/finishing training) The goal is to connect your background to the company’s need What type of position you are seeking What field you would like to be employed in Why you chose their company

6. Things to keep handy… Plenty of fresh resumes Pens or pencils Folder or portfolio Paper for taking notes

7. How should you dress? Clean ironed clothes Casual to business casual Shirt tucked in Conservative colors (keep attention on you, not your clothes) Be sure hair and nails are well groomed Keep jewelry simple (if it makes noise, take it off)

8. Job Fair Etiquette If you have a real interest in an employer, find out the procedures to secure an interview Don’t interrupt the HR reps or fellow job seekers Sincerity always wins! Don’t just drop your resume on employers’ display tables Keep your eyes and ears open (you never know where an opportunity will arise)

9. In order to maximize your job fair experience, you must be an active participant and not just a browser.

10. During the job fair… Make eye contact immediately when introducing yourself Start every conversation with your best etiquette (a firm handshake, eye contact, a smile and your “one-minute commercial” Listen carefully to what the HR reps have to say Show confidence in your voice Your resume should be easily accessible Don’t chew gum or smoke Obtain a floor plan before entering the room Network alone, not in groups Respect the privacy of others who are networking Ask questions about the company to maximize your time Take a few minutes to jot down notes about the HR rep and companies to help you remember later

11. During the job fair (cont)… Obtain a business card from each HR rep that you speak to This information can be very useful for follow-up Before leaving the fair, revisit your top few companies to make a lasting impression

12. After the job fair… Following up with HR reps after the fair is something that is often overlooked, and yet is seen as polite and courteous to most employers. Letters should be sent no more than 24 hours after the fair. Write a thank you to each HR rep that you spoke to

13. What to include in a Thank You Confirm your interest and enthusiasm for the company Highlight your skills and abilities that you feel would most benefit the company Inquire about the next step in the selection process Include your contact information Follow up within a few weeks by calling or emailing to see if you can meet with them again

14. What are you there for? Are you interested in finding out about a particular career field? Then ask generalized questions about working in the industry. Are you seeking career opportunities with a specific employer? Then focus your questions on the application and interview process, and ask for specific information about the employer. Questions you ask depend upon your goals…

15. Sample questions… What type of entry level positions exist within your company? What qualities are you looking for in a prospective employee? What do you feel are the future trends in this industry? Where do you see this company in 5 years? 10 years? Do you have plans for expansion? How would you describe the working environment within the company?

16. Final thoughts… It is your responsibility to approach employers and initiate a conversation. You will get out of a job fair exactly what you put into it. Be assertive and positive!