Networking Tips

Before the Job Fair:

• Do some online research on the organizations that might be of interest to you.
• Once you have selected organizations, be prepared to explain why you want to work for their organization.
• Be prepared to ask questions of the representatives. Write your questions down and practice them out loud.
• Know what jobs and/or internships you seek and know what skills you can bring to a company.
• Identify specific experiences that have demonstrated your strengths. Give specific examples of your skills. Doing this will make you a stronger candidate.

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During the Job Fair:

• Make eye contact immediately when introducing yourself.
• Give a firm handshake (but not too firm) to everyone you meet.
• Remember the representative’s name. If you forget, casually refer to their name tag.
• Smile and be polite. Enthusiasm is important.
• Dress nicely: Business casual attire is acceptable. You are making your first impression. A suit is not required but torn jeans will not make the right impression.
• Turn your cell phone off.

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Body Language:

• Keep your body calm – do not fidget, play with your hair, or rock from side to side.
• Keep your focus on the interviewer – do not look around when talking or being spoken to.
• Keep a positive facial expression, smile occasionally.
• Do not chew gum or tabacco.

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Communication:

• Listen carefully to what the representative has to say.
• Avoid using filler words such as “um,” “like,” or “you know.”
• Show confidence in your voice. The room may be noisy, but if they can’t hear you they won’t remember you.
• Bring an updated resume. If for some reason you can’t bring one, offer to send it by email.
• Ask for a business card or write down the representative’s name.
• At the end of the interview, ask about the hiring process and next step.

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Explore all your Options:

• Speak with organizations that you have not considered or heard of before.
• Take the initiative and engage in meaningful conversations with representatives. They won’t remember you if your conversation is overly generic.
• Representatives are there to provide information about their organizations and career fields, so don’t be afraid to ask.
• Representatives are excellent resources in your career search and decision-making process.

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After the Job Fair:

• Email a thank you note. It can bring attention to your name and help them remember you.
• Send an initial or additional resume along with your thank you note, and point out your strengths again.
• If calling, be prepared and know what you are going to say beforehand. In other words: practice! Also, be respectful of their time.