TOP NOTCH RESUME- Be sure that your resume is free of spelling or grammatical errors- this one is a no brainier. HOWEVER, have digital copies available to send to the recruiter via LinkedIn or email and have some nice copies available as well. If you happen to print on fancy resume paper.. then extra points for you.
DRESS THE PART Yes, we would all rather dress casually or show up in pajamas. You need to think about your audience. Who is going to be at this career fair? You want to look approachable and not stiff. Practice talking and interviewing in your outfit. Make sure you have two outfits that are pressed and clean.
A GOOD HANDSHAKE- The key here is eye contact and confidence. Be firm but do not pump their hand. I loved practicing my handshake you can do this anywhere!
TURN YOUR PHONE ON SILENT- Honestly i used to turn my phone completely off. However, these days some people do not have business cards or they run out. A great way to keep in contact with a recruiter is to connect with them on LinkedIn and send your resume so do stay off your phone unless the situation calls for an opportunity.
DO YOUR HOMEWORK- You want to do your homework and know exactly which companies are showing up. Read about these companies in advanced and the open positions they have available so you have discussion topics for when you see them How can you help them.
BE ASSERTIVE- Do Not wait for the recruiter to talk to you. You will wait forever and never get a chance. Do wait till the recruiter is finished and make your move. Do be respectful but assertive. There are so many students or individuals that are just too shy or introverted and this is a great way to stand out from the crowd. This is when your confidence needs to shine. Above all else fake it till you make it because sometimes you just have to put on your extrovert pants for a couple hours to get yourself out there.
MAKE YOUR ROUNDS- If the particular table you are at is filled with people.. typically the large telecom companies or the Amazon’s in the industry. Walk around to other tables. There may be a way to snag an opportunity at another great place that others don’t know about. That being said, when you do come back around, make a point to have a story or elevator pitch to make yourself stand out. Sometimes asking good questions and being respectful and asking the recruiter about THEIR experience can leave a great impression.
What are some tips you have for navigating and crushing a career or job fair?