Things You Need To Know

JOB FAIRS and THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW

Why am I going to the CVC Job Fair?

What do employers want from the CVC Job Fair?

They want to meet qualified college students and alumni.
They are at the fair to provide career and company information to prospective hires.
They want to increase awareness and knowledge about their organizations.
They want to screen and make contacts with individuals who may potentially fill vacant positions.

What do I need to do before the CVC Job Fair?

You first need to know what companies are expected to attend the fair. To see who's coming, click here.
Examine the list and decide which companies are of interest to you. Keep checking -- new employers are added regularly until right before the fair.
Research the companies before speaking with representatives at the fair. (The more you know about a company, the more educated and impressive you will appear to the company recruiter.)
Clarify career goals before attending the fair in order to effectively communicate to the employers what you are seeking in a job or company.
Be able to concisely describe your experience, educational background and skills to any prospective employers.

What should I expect at the CVC Job Fair?

Lots of information about the represented companies including brochures and promotional material to take home. Speaking with representatives will provide you additional information.
You can expect to broaden your horizons. Don't go with narrowly defined interests. If you're wide-open, the possiblilities will be endless.

What do I need to bring to the CVC Job Fair?

Resume (multiple copies); other documents that present your qualifications. Click here to go to our Resume and Cover Letter Assistance Page.
Paper and several pens to sign in at the tables and take notes.
Professional portfolio or briefcase to organize the materials you gather about the companies.

How should I handle myself at the CVC Job Fair?

When I meet an employer at the CVC Job Fair, what do I say?

Start by introducing yourself.
Shake hands and state your career interests in a confident manner.
Offer the recruiter a copy of your resume.
Ask the recruiter relevant questions about his/her company.
Communicate your capabilities.
Take a business card from the representative and a copy of the available literature.
Take notes after each conversation so that you can recall it later.
Be sure you note the recruiter's name.

What do I do after the CVC Job Fair?

Send a thank you letter to companies/representatives of interest.
In the letter, try to note something specific regarding the conversation so they will remember you.
Enclose another copy of your resume and reiterate your interest in the company.

TIPS FOR MAKING THE MOST OF A JOB FAIR

Dress in appropriate, conservative business attire. Treat the fair as you would a career interview.
A sincere, honest and confident approach will make you stand out.
Know who you are and have a focused direction.
Be prepared to ask questions.
Know how your background and interests match the needs of a position within that company.
Know an organization's major products and services.
Express excitement (and smile) about the opportunity to interact with the employer.
Never stand in a long line. Make yourself available whenever/wherever there is the least amount of activity (maybe at the very beginning or toward the end of the event). Do not leave the fair without speaking with at least ten employers.
Never discuss salary at this stage!!
Don't forget to collect promotional and contact infromation from the representative if you are interested in pursuing involvement with a specific organization.
Take a look at our Job Fairs page. You will find advice on how to be your best at any job fair.