Dress professionally - interview attire is recommended.
Leave your coat, backpack, briefcase, etc. in the car.
Don’t wear perfume or cologne or clothing that has intense odor of cigarette smoke.
Bring a notebook & a pen/pencil.
Turn off your cell phone/pager.
Attend alone, not with friends or children.
Before Meeting With Employers
Devise your strategy.
Arrive early before recruiters get tired.
Stay flexible since your top choices may have long lines.
Obtain a floor plan to map out the companies you would like to target.
Review the participant list & look for employers who were added late.
Be organized – have your resume, pen, and notebook easily accessible.
Don’t interrupt when recruiters are talking with other candidates.
Use the time standing in line to network with other candidates (exchange business cards).
Read the employer’s brochure while standing in line.
Listen in on conversation’s the employer is having with other candidates so you don’t repeat the same questions but use the information gained to your advantage.
Conduct yourself professionally at all times- you could be making an impression standing in line. Be on best behavior in break areas, hallway, restrooms and parking lots.
Employer Meetings
Employers view you as a future representative of their company - act accordingly.
Convey confidence, interest and enthusiasm.
Avoid nervous mannerisms.
Offer a firm handshake, smile and maintain good eye contact.
Introduce yourself and start your personal presentation before giving your resume to the recruiter.
Relate your skills and achievements to the specific needs of the employer.
Relax, speak slowly, confidently and loud enough to be heard over the noise.
Typically you will have approximately 3-5 minutes.
Express your interest by demonstrating knowledge of the organization.
Do not ask the recruiter “what are you looking for” or “what does your company do?” You will only make it clear that you did not research the company beforehand.
Listen and ask relevant questions about the company and position.
Do not ask salary related questions.
If the company did not list positions in your field, ask for a contact name.
Don’t say, “I’ll take anything.” It doesn’t show your flexibility. It only makes you appear unfocused or desperate and is another employer pet peeve.
Ask what the next step is and how to follow up.
Obtain appropriate contact info and request a business card.
Know when your time is up!
If you are interested, say so. Employers are attracted to individuals that show interest in their organization.
Take notes on the information uncovered with each employer as soon as possible.
If asked, complete a company application on the spot. Don’t take one with the promise to complete it later.
