How Do I Prepare for a Career Fair? Here’s a Check-List for You!

Resume:
It’s time to dust off the resume and update it with your summer internship or activities. You’ll want to do this first, and have it reviewed by a UCSO Career Coach if possible. You might also want to review the Resume Guide on the UCSO Website. And make sure you hit “spell check!” Then upload it on the UCSO Website and update your registration information to read “Yes, release my resume and data to employers.”

Review Companies Coming to Campus:
This is an importance aspect of preparation, since last year the UCSO received feedback that some recruiters mentioned a lack of company information students demonstrated. So, once you’ve selected the companies you’ll be targeting, research the companies and industries to “wow” the recruiters with your interest and knowledge!

Practice Your Skills:
Have you practiced your elevator speech or business small talk lately? Recruiters meet many students and some visit multiple campuses. What can you say about yourself to make a position impression and help the recruiter to remember you? Make an appointment with a UCSO Career Coach to practice if you have any doubts at all!

Business Attire:
Unless otherwise stated, a career fair requires professional business attire. Pull your suit out of the closet and inspect it for cleanliness and tears. Have it cleaned or repaired to ensure you look your best, and inspect your shoes, too. Also, how do your hair and nails look? Professional appearances make a big impact on recruiters!

Network at the Career Fairs:
If you’re seeking an internship or full-time job for next summer, then you’ll want to attend career fairs to build relationships with the many recruiters who visit campus. Bring your student ID to register at the door and several copies of your resume to hand to recruiters. And now it’s time to visit the career fair with confidence!