Day 5:

“You know, like nunchuck skills, bowhunting skills, computer hacking skills… Girls only want boyfriends who have great skills. Forget flower bouquets and work on developing some captivating skills.”  – Napoleon Dynamite

So, what are your skills?  Master your 30-60 second infomercial or “elevator speech”!  Oh, and leave out your “computer hacking skills.”

This will arm you with all you need to begin an intelligent and effective conversation with employers.  If you’re not sure what to say, visit Career Services and we will help you!  Here are some ideas of what to include:

• Where you are now? (degree, program, year in college)
• Where you have been? (career-related experience, leadership experience, part-time work experience)
• Where you are going? (future goals)
• A question for the employer

Here’s a great example:

“Hello. My name is Lucy and I will graduate in May 2012 with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in English. As a student here at OSU, I have had the chance to gain leadership and organizational skills through my involvement in the English Club. In addition, I have worked for two years as a server at the Annex allowing me to gain valuable customer service experience. I am seeking a full-time position in the field of public relations for next summer. Can you share with me any opportunities within your organization that might fit with my skills and experience?”

Day 6:

I’m here…now what?

• Locate your chosen employers on the map
• Offer your hand for a professional handshake (one shake)
• Begin the conversation with your 30 second infomercial
• Ask the employer a question relating to your career goal
• Ask the employer for next steps
• Be energetic – be your best, as refreshed as possible

Day 7:

In your “Pursuit of happyness” make sure you set your expectations…

You are responsible for making the most of a job fair. This means that you should begin with clearly defined and realistic expectations. You may not receive a job offer at the fair, but it is realistic to assume you will make a significant number of employer contacts. For most candidates, success will depend on effective follow‐up after the fair.

Day 8:

Be aware of employer expectations…

Some employers are only collecting resumes; some may not be able to accept any resumes and may ask you to submit application materials online. Some are building/assessing an applicant pool; some are ready to fill specific vacancies.

Some will expect you to express your interest by already knowing about their organization; some will view this day as a career fair/information gathering process. Most employers will expect you will follow up if you are interested. All employers expect you to be professional, willing to initiate conversation and able to highlight your strengths.

Day 9:

Did you know…

You can attend the Career Services Career Seminars which are offered every term!   Join us on Monday, October 22nd from 1pm-2pm for our “Beaver’s Wanted: How to have Success at the Career Fairs” seminar in . Not able to make that time? Then check out on our website ways to prepare for the Career Fair.

Day 10:

What to ask employers…

First and foremost, questions should be natural. Be yourself. Don’t rifle your questions; maintain a flow.

Here are some sample questions to ask organization representatives:

• What kind of entry‐level positions exist within your company?
• Do you offer internships?
• If so, what percentage of interns are offered positions after graduation?
• What does your company consider the 5 most important qualities in an employee?
• What courses do you suggest in order to be a successful candidate?
• What personality traits are important for success in your company?
• What made you chose this company?
• How long have you been with the company?
• What goals does your company have for the next five years and beyond?
• What are the next steps in the hiring process?

Day 11:

Don’t be fooled…

A common misconception is that an accounting student should only look for employment at accounting firms for example.  However, what you must remember is that most businesses have an accountant on staff.  Don’t discount a company because you think they are specifically an “engineering company,” because guess what, that engineering company also needs an employee to handle their marketing, people to run their HR department etc.  Moral of the story, there will be a wide variety of industries represented at the fair but don’t assume that your major won’t apply to certain companies just because of the industry they’re in.

Day 12:

Want sweet FREE stuff?

Come to the fair, get awesome stuff.  It’s really that simple.  The participating employers love spoiling you, our students, so come check out what the swag they’re giving away.  No spoilers here.