Welcome 

to the 2012 Career Expo

 Current list of employers attending

 2012 Expo Employer Listing and Hiring Info

 International Student Career Expo Prep

Top Tips: Preparing for the Career Expo

1. Use the Expo as a Networking Opportunity

• Attending a fair won’t always result in a job, but it can be a great way to connect with employers and explore career possibilities 
• Keep an open mind and stay positive – try your best to talk with a variety of employers to gather information about what interests you

2. Research companies and organizations beforehand

• Check out the Expo Employer website for a list of employers attending
• Visit their website to learn about their mission statement, employment opportunities, and get a sense of their work, customers, projects, etc.
• See what others are saying about them by checking out news sources, LinkedIn, and social media
• Brainstorm questions for the employer that go beyond the basics and will invite a deeper dialogue at the Expo
  
  

3. Decide what you will wear in advance

•  Try on your outfit in advance – does it fit? Is it clean and ironed? Are your shoes polished and fresh? Do you feel confident?
• Take care of your outfit now so you can focus on making a great first impression at the Expo!

4. Gather the materials you plan to bring

• Update and print copies of your resume. Consider bringing several copies of your general resume and bring targeted resumes for any companies or industries that most interest you.
• Personalized business cards can be ordered through Career Services in PAVL 110.
• Keep your materials in a professional padfolio with a pen and notepad for jotting down questions or reminders to yourself about following up with employers.
• Personal items – facial tissue, breath mints, bottled water, a comb, or other personal items may help you feel your best at Expo. Pack these early on so you don’t have to scramble the day of Expo!

5. Prepare your personal introduction

• Practice your introduction in advance to feel more confident when approaching employers.
• Consider what relevant skills you would bring to a position – jot them down and practice talking about them in case an employer asks.
• Brainstorm a few questions you can ask employers when you visit their booths.

6. Make a plan for the day of Expo

•  Set goals for your career fair experience – maybe you want to talk to all companies in the biotech industry, or you plan to distribute at least 10 copies of your resume to employers that interest you. 
• Collect business cards and jot down notes about your conversation on the back to jog your memory when following up. 
•  Having a goal in mind can help motivate you to use your time wisely while you are at the Career Expo!
  

 For additional useful tips to prepare for Career Expo, watch this video produced by the Albers Placement Center.