Reread your résumé. Substituting “u” for “you” leaves a bad first impression.
Develop multiple versions of your résumé.
Make sure your résumé is on good résumé paper. Don’t pull a “Legally Blonde.”
Make sure you and your résumé are easy on the eyes.
The design of your résumé must highlight the most important information about your work experience, skills and education. At first glance this information forms the image that employers have of your skills and abilities.
Use power words or verbs that match the level of position you want.
Have you thought about your cover letter? Many jobs require that you apply online after or before the career fair, be prepared with a strong cover letter different than your résumé.
Prepare Yourself Tips
Finding a job is a full-time job—come to Fall Career Days and cut your hours per week.
Nothing impresses an employer LESS THAN… "So what do you guys do?"
Have specific questions prepared before the event for each specific recruiter at each company you meet.
Before the career fair, be sure to eat a filling breakfast—but avoid foods that could cause stomach upset!
Always be pleasant—the person you pass in the hall could be your future boss.
You want to be a Professional? Act like one. Offer a firm handshake, show enthusiasm and maintain eye contact.
A thirty-second commercial is something to practice and perfect. Don’t assume you will have a great answer when the time comes.
Some organizations will let you upload your résumé at the fair - bring your résumé on a jump drive!
What to Wear Tips
Wear comfortable shoes! While your pumps might look adorable with your outfit, you won’t look too hot when you’re stumbling out of the BJC.
Dress for success! When in doubt, be conservative
It’s absurd to base a hiring decision on the basis of appearance. Isn't it? The average employer makes a hiring decision with in the first 15 seconds of meeting you.
Gentlemen-- Wear a clean, pressed suit and tie. If you do not own a suit, you should wear clean, pressed dress pants and a long-sleeve, light-colored, pressed shirt and tie. VIEW SHORT MOVIE (What Not to Wear)
Ladies-- Wear a clean, pressed suit - either pants or skirt. Skirts should be no shorter than 2” above the knee.
Anything that could detract a recruiter from paying attention to your qualifications (i.e.: facial jewelry, heavy perfumes/colognes), will negatively impact the professional impression you want to achieve. VIEW SHORT MOVIE (What Not to Wear)
Go to the student registration table (Gate A or Gate B of the BJC) to receive your name tag. Remember to bring your student ID!
Be sure to carry a professional portfolio. Now is not the time to sport your newest backpack.
Adhere your nametag to your right chest. This way, when you reach out to shake someone’s hand, they’ll see your name.
Come prepared to talk about your professional experiences- classroom projects and internships build your credibility.
Don't forget to eliminate such bad habits as playing with your hair, chewing gum, fidgeting, rocking from side-to-side, acting distracted, rubbing your nose, etc.
Don't spend too much time in line. Make sure you get to meet as many of the recruiters on your list as possible
When meeting a company representative, be sure to use their name in your conversation.
Always ask for business cards after meeting a company representative. After you’re done talking with them, take notes on the back of the card and use those notes to draft a personalized thank you note.
Don’t treat FCD like a competition to pick up the most swag.
You stand out and make a better impression on your own. Don't cruise with a group of friends.
After the Fair Tips
After the fair concludes, jot down notes about conversations you had with company representatives. If you wait too long, the conversations will start running together in your head, and you'll forget what you said to whom.
Follow up on promises. If, for example, a company representative expressed interest in looking at your Web site, make sure to email the URL like you said you would.
Within a few days,send a thank you note to each recruiter with whom you talked – especially if you are considering future opportunities with the organization.
Remember to apply online after the Fair if the recruiter instructs you to!
Network with anyone (friends, family, faculty, alumni of Penn State) who will give you information on career opportunities or job openings.
Don't know what to do next? Drop-in to see a Career Counselor (no appointment necessary, Monday-Friday, 8:30am - 5:00pm) or call 814-865-2377. for cover letter help, mock interview practice, or other questions.
Interviewing Tips
Catch the interviewer's interest with something unique about you.
The interview is not about the candidate, it's about the job. No matter how great you are as a person or employee, the interviewer is trying to fill a position.
Ask what a perfect candidate would be like.
Research the company BEFORE the fair.
Show your research - mention something you have learned about the organization.
Know the job description - Reviewing the job description will help you customize your answers by addressing the specific needs of the organization and requirements of the position to your skill set.
Keep your answers to questions short and to the point - Don't volunteer extra information.
Be gracious - Be polite to absolutely everybody. If someone gets you a cup of coffee, thank them; hold the door for someone else - that kind of thing. Give the receptionist or the last person you see a cheery goodbye. You want to leave a good impression.
Employers can smell fear, desperation and anxiety from a mile away. Show strength, perseverance, optimism and a good work ethic in your interview rather than a bad attitude.
If you are getting interviews but missing out on opportunities, consult with a career counselor. Understanding how to tackle hard questions is an art that can be mastered. (No appointment necessary, Monday-Friday, 8:30am - 5:00pm) or call 814-865-2377.
