The best advice we can give you is to prepare
in advance for success at the Career Expo.
Be Confident As You Approach
Each Employer
The purpose of a Career Expo is for students and employers to
meet and exchange information. Don't hesitate in your approach!
Take the initiative and introduce yourself. Walking up and introducing
yourself to a recruiter may be uncomfortable, and you may feel
awkward and unsure about how to begin a conversation. However,
recognize that, as in any new situation, first impressions begin
with the moment you approach an employer. Make that moment count!Walk
up confidently, say hello, introduce yourself, and shake the
representative's hand. Be sure to establish eye contact and
smile. Make a general statement about yourself, such as, "I
am in the College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences
with an emphasis in Agricultural Business and will graduate
in December (or March, or June). I would like to know more about
career opportunities with XYZ company." Also ask if they
are interviewing on campus this quarter. This will give you
an idea of their hiring needs. The more recruiters you speak
with, the more skilled you will become at these first introductions.
Dress Professionally
You will succeed in creating the impression that you are serious
about your future employment opportunities if you dress in appropriate
business attire. It is absolutely necessary that both men and
women wear business attire, even if the recruiters are more
casually dressed.
Bring A Lot
Of Resumes
With so many companies being represented at the Career Expo,
having enough resumes to last through the day is essential.
The resume should be well written, follow established resume
development guidelines, and be professional in appearance.
Send Follow-up
Letters
Ask for a business card before you leave an employer. This will
ensure that you have the proper name and address of the representative
with whom you spoke. Send a thank you letter within a week of
the event. This should be a formal, typed, business letter on
quality stationary. Be sure to remind each recruiter that you
met him/her at the Career Expo, and that you appreciate having
had the opportunity to discuss career opportunities. You may
also wish to include another copy of you resume.
Use Your Time
Effectively
There will be a list of companies available prior to the Career
Expo. Know which corporations will be represented. Research
the corporations before you introduce yourself to the recruiters
so you will be able to ask intelligent questions - and respond
to any questions with confidence. Make a list of the corporate
representatives you want to meet. Prioritize them. Don't meet
with your top choices first. Try out your greeting and introduction
on two or three which are nearer the bottom of your list so
you will have a chance to overcome any nervousness before you
approach your top choices. After the Career Expo, check your
recruiting calendar so you know when your choice companies are
interviewing. During the pre-screen process, include a cover
letter and mention that you spoke with them at Career Expo.
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