How to Slay the Career Fair
Mark your calendars Grand Rapids students! The career fair is this Wednesday, October 16th. Here is your crash course to absolutely ~slay~ the career fair this year.
Research
You wouldn't go into a first date without online stalking, so why should networking be any different? According to Carmelita Waller, Meijer’s Talent Acquisition Manager, you should get to know the company, what they do, and what’s happening in the industry. Start by doing a general search to answer your initial questions. Then dive into what the news is saying and any events that the company has been a part of! Your research can also help you build thoughtful questions to ask. Know what jobs they are offering and speak to your interest in them. Now go do your research!
Enthusiasm
Believe it or not, your first impression starts before the handshake! As we all know, the lines to talk to the business professionals can be long but don’t slack off. If they aren't watching you, another business person is, make sure you are always “on.” Introduce yourself and make it memorable. These individuals will be there for 5 hours (or have been there for 5 hours). Grab their attention with politeness and gratitude, then go in for the kill with your pitch.
The Pitch
Slightly different than the ole’ career elevator pitch, your pitch at the career fair needs to have the short and flashy technique. Key points to hit include your major, your year, what you are looking for and when you are looking to fill the position. The professional typically describes what roles they are looking to fill at the company. Take note of the skills you can bring to the role - this is where you bring up content on your resume to speak to. Hand them that gorgeous resume you spent hours revising and walk them through those key experiences! Finally, make sure you ask any questions you have! You want to be crystal clear on the expectations of the position.
Be Yourself
Opposite to popular belief, you're not trying to sell yourself. Applying for jobs is a two-way street. If they don’t want you it’s better to know upfront. One of the most profound things I heard from my past internships is that you are interviewing them too! Treat it like a first date and test the waters. It is okay to ask questions - it’s your future, so take control of it!
Thank You Thank You Thank You!
These recruiters do this day after day, hour after hour. Make a good first impression and end it on a ~classy~ note. Be genuine, look them in the eyes, shake their hand, and let them know you appreciate their time and look forward to hearing from them!
Kill ‘Em With Kindness
Congrats! You have successfully made your pitch and have given them your resume. Follow the heck up with these individuals. It may sound like a lot of work, but that’s how you set yourself apart from your fellow college students they spent the last 5 hours talking to. Not to hurt your feelings, but they will forget you. So, do them (and you) a solid and add in details of your discussion. Thank them (again), take key topics from your ever-so short conversation and expand on them. Also, it never hurts to send a PDF of your resume attached to the email! And as the Talent Acquisition Manager at Meijer will tell you, make sure it is a PDF.
Go Forth and Get That Interview
Now that you know all the tips; press your tie, iron your pants, and get out there! Believe in your own abilities and go into the career fair with confidence! Grand Valley is a fantastic institution that has prepared you time and time again to be a competitive candidate in your career. Shake some hands, get some business cards and be yourself! From all of us at GrandPR, we wish you luck!
About Annica:
Annica Steen is a senior at GVSU studying advertising and public relations with a minor in marketing. This year, Annica is serving as GrandPR’s Programing Director and a member of PRSSA. In her free time, she enjoys photography, taking coffee classes, and cooking.