How to Prepare for a Job Fair
Preparing for the Job Fair takes place during the weeks prior to the Career Fair. Our Center for Student Employment and Career Development team is here to help prepare students and alumni to have a successful and rewarding experience at the Career Fair! Stop by the Career Center located in Rollins, Room 59, on the first floor for assistance.
How should you prepare?
Career Fairs should be treated as a job interview. That is why we strongly encourage utilizing ALL job preparation services offered. They are FREE and designed to help you navigate a competitive job market. Check out the short video titled Career Fair Success!
Perfect your Resume!
Be sure it stands out because of its polished and professional appearance, and not because of typos, inconsistencies, and errors. The Career Center will review your resume. Please email your resume to resumerx@bucks.edu, and one of our staff members will ensure that your resume is flawless. Tips and sample resumes are included in the Job Search Handbook 2019. This resource is helpful whether you are a beginner or just need to update your resume.
Do your research
- View the employer list to determine which employers you would like to speak with at the Job Fair
- Conduct reserach on the companies of interest by utilizing their website
- Write down 2-3 important points or questions that you can talk about when you meet the recruiter
Dress Professionally
The saying "Dress for the job you want!" has never been truer. We strongly encourage professional attire for admittance to the Career Fair. Check out the videos below that address the topic of professional attire for both men and women. You have one opportunity to make a great first impression, and that takes an employer less than a minute!
Interview Tips
Practice! Practice! Practice! Take advantage of the extensive recruiting and HR experiences of the Center for Student Employment and Career Development staff. Schedule a meeting to practice introducing yourself to an employer at the Career Fair. You'll gain the confidence you need to professionally present your skills and abilities. Don't forget to ask employers for their business cards while you are at the table.
Remember to bring:
- Multiple copies of your resume
- A briefcase or portfolio to hold your resumes and any material employers may provide you (Please DO NOT Bring Backpacks, Book Bags, Food or Beverages)
- Pen and paper to take notes (essential for following up with employers!)
- If you have any questions about attending the Career Fair, please call 215-968-8195 or email us at career@bucks.edu.
After the Job Fair:
- You should have collected business cards from each employer who was of interest.
- It is important to send a Thank You note to each of those employees because doing so can give you that competitive edge that is so necessary for the job search. Employers may not have determined who they will bring in for an interview, and your Thank You note may help them to decide to speak with you further about a job opportunity.
- Be sure to include a few key points that were discussed at the Career Fair and how your education and skills would benefit the company. A short video on this topic is included in the next section.
The Interview:
So, you impressed an employer that you met at the Career Fair, and they want to schedule an interview. Now what? First, don’t panic! Schedule a Mock Interview with the Center for Student Employment and Career Development staff, and we will prepare you for the tough questions as well as what to expect in the interview.