Preparing for a career fair can feel overwhelming, but it’s a crucial step for students looking to launch their careers post-graduation. Whether you’re seeking internships or full-time employment, career fairs offer invaluable opportunities to connect with potential employers. To help you navigate this process effectively, we’ve compiled expert advice from the career services team at Mizzou, emphasizing how to leverage Mizzou Career Tools for optimal preparation and success. These tips are especially beneficial for upperclassmen ready to take the next step in their professional journey.
1. Master the Basics with Mizzou Career Tools
Don’t walk into a career fair unprepared. Your first stop should be the Mizzou Career Tools website. This platform is designed to equip you with resources and guidance at every stage of your career exploration.
“You don’t want to go into a career fair blind without any preparation. Use the keyword search and type ‘career fair’ to find lots of resources and a listing of all upcoming events. Also take time to explore the many filters and tags.” – Amanda Nell, Senior Coordinator of Student Services in the Career Center
Utilize the keyword search function within Mizzou Career Tools and type “career fair” to uncover a wealth of articles, checklists, and event listings specifically tailored to help you prepare. Explore the website’s filters and tags to narrow down resources relevant to your field of interest and career goals. Familiarizing yourself with these tools is the first step in making a strong impression at the career fair.
2. Polish Your Professional Image: Resume Ready
Your resume is your professional introduction. Make sure it’s polished and ready to impress recruiters.
“Bring at least 20 copies of your resume printed on resume paper. Also, take the extra step and have your resume reviewed by your college’s career center prior to the career fair.” – Matthew Arri, Director of Career Services in the College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources
Print at least 20 copies of your resume on resume paper to demonstrate professionalism. Crucially, before printing, take advantage of the resume review services offered by your college’s career center. Mizzou Career Tools may also offer resume templates and advice, but a personalized review from a career advisor can provide tailored feedback to make your resume stand out.
3. Dress to Impress: Project Professionalism
First impressions are lasting impressions. Recruiters often form opinions within seconds of meeting you, so your attire matters.
“First impressions matter. Recruiters are making an assessment within 15 seconds of meeting someone, so dress for the occasion.” – Amanda Nell
Consult the recommended guidelines for business attire to ensure you present a professional image. For visual inspiration, explore the MUCC Pinterest board. If acquiring business attire poses a challenge, remember Truman’s Closet, a free service for Mizzou students offering professional clothing. Looking professional boosts your confidence and signals to recruiters that you take the opportunity seriously.
4. Strategic Planning: Your Career Fair Game Plan
Don’t wander aimlessly at the career fair. Develop a strategic approach to maximize your time and connections.
“Do some research ahead of time and decide which companies you want to talk to. You can use the Career Fair Plus app to research the employers coming to several of our career fairs on campus” – Matthew Arri
Leverage the Career Fair Plus app to research participating employers. This app, searchable for “University of Missouri” under the “Student/Candidate” option, provides details about companies attending specific career fairs. Identify companies aligned with your career interests and prioritize your interactions. This targeted approach demonstrates initiative and focused career goals.
5. Craft Your Elevator Pitch: Introduce Yourself Effectively
Prepare a concise and compelling elevator pitch to introduce yourself to recruiters.
“Your elevator pitch is your first impression — it’s a quick way to highlight important information that recruiters want to know and can help you stand out among your peers. The more you practice, the more natural it will become.” – Luke Gorham, School of Health Professions Career Services Coordinator
Your elevator pitch, lasting 30-60 seconds, should include:
- Your full name (projecting confidence).
- Your academic year.
- Your objective (internship or job).
- Relevant experience and skills.
- A unique selling point.
Practice your pitch extensively. The more comfortable you are delivering it, the more natural and impactful it will be. Mizzou Career Tools likely offers resources and examples to help you construct a strong elevator pitch.
6. Interview Readiness: Practice Makes Perfect
Career fairs can sometimes lead to on-the-spot interviews. Be prepared to showcase your interview skills.
“You really need to prepare for an interview. Take time to use some of our interview practice resources. It’s important to review possible questions and say your responses out loud to help ease your nerves and put your best foot forward.” – Amanda Nell
Utilize the interview practice resources available through Mizzou Career Tools and the Career Center website. Review common interview questions and practice your responses aloud. This preparation will reduce anxiety and allow you to present yourself confidently and articulately if an interview opportunity arises.
7. Ask Smart Questions: Engage Recruiters Meaningfully
Prepare thoughtful questions to ask recruiters, demonstrating your genuine interest and research.
“Do research on the company and any open positions they have. Know what products/services they provide, where they are located and their mission and/or value statement. These are great conversation starters and make you look smart!” – Julia Parcell, Trulaske College of Business Professional Edge Programming Director
Research companies you plan to engage with. Understand their products, services, locations, and mission statements. Prepare questions that go beyond basic information, showing you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested in their organization. This level of engagement makes a positive impression.
8. Note-Taking Strategy: Capture Key Information
During conversations, jot down important details to aid your follow-up efforts.
“Write down important information about the recruiter, the job opportunities and something specific you talked about with the recruiter. It will be useful when you send a follow-up message.” – Luke Gorham
Take notes during your conversations. Record the recruiter’s name, job titles discussed, and specific points you discussed. These notes will be invaluable when crafting personalized follow-up messages.
9. Networking Power: Gather Contact Information
Building connections is crucial. Obtain recruiter contact information for future communication.
“It’s important to have multiple touch points with recruiters to help them remember you — this can be done by asking for their contact information or sending a LinkedIn request. Stay in touch with the recruiter and follow the company on LinkedIn and social media sites to stay up to date with each company.” – Julia Parcell
Ask for business cards or LinkedIn connection requests. Staying connected on LinkedIn and following companies on social media keeps you updated on company news and potential opportunities, increasing your visibility to recruiters.
10. Timely Follow-Up: Reinforce Your Interest
Within 48 hours of the career fair, send personalized follow-up messages to your recruiter contacts.
Students actively engaging with recruiters at a career fair booth, showcasing resume and practicing professional communication, highlighting Mizzou Career Tools for student career development.
Craft personalized follow-up messages referencing specific details from your conversations to jog their memory. Reiterate your interest in their company and attach your resume and a tailored cover letter as a proactive step. This timely and personalized follow-up significantly increases your chances of standing out.
By utilizing Mizzou Career Tools and following these preparation steps, you can confidently navigate career fairs and maximize your opportunities for internships and employment. Remember, proactive preparation and strategic engagement are the keys to career fair success.
