The annual SAF Student Chapter Job Fair is not too far away. Mark your calendars now for Tuesday, February 7, 2012 and plan to be there! As always, the fair will take place in the 3 “knuckles” or lobbies of Richardson Hall. We usually see around 30 companies/agencies from around the state and region. What can you do now to prepare? Well, I’m glad you asked! Visit Career Services in the Kerr Admin Building for help in preparing or improving your resume. You may already have a resume but maybe you want to consider alternate or more noteworthy ways to visibly show your skills and experiences. Or perhaps you don’t have a resume or much job experience. Career Services can help you highlight your education, transferrable skills, and extra-curricular activities in such a way that your abilities stand out over your lack of employment history. It’s worth a trip to Kerr. But, here’s a hint, don’t go unprepared! Draft out a resume that you can work from. Be sure to list any jobs you’ve had, any special certificates, awards, etc. you’ve earned including scholarships, sports you’ve played, clubs you’ve joined especially if you’ve had a leadership role…you get the idea. Career Services also offers mock interview workshops and cover letter assistance. It’s nearly too good to be true and way too good to pass up! So, make way over to Kerr and get yourself prepared for the SAF Job Fair!
What can you expect from the job fair?
There will be tables or booths set up in the RH lobbies for each employer. They’ll have displays, information, and representatives ready to talk to all interested students. They may also be conducting interviews that same day or later in the week. They may want your resume.
What do potential employers expect of you?
First and foremost, employers will expect you to present yourself and behave professionally. And while that doesn’t just mean LOOKING professional it doesn’t hurt to mention here that you should NOT wear jeans and a t-shirt to the job fair. Rather, dress as you would for an interview – and for lack of an easier way to describe it, the term “business casual” will generally suffice for the job fair. They will also expect you to be prepared with your resume in hand. They will expect you to have questions and show interest in their organization. They will want you to know your schedule so that if they offer you an interview you can set up a time without hesitation. They will expect you to speak clearly and competently (no slang, “likes,” “you knows,” “OMGs” or other texting jargon, etc.). And while you might never think of it they’ll expect you to have a confident handshake – no limp fish at the job fair! And don’t forget to smile! Need more guidance? Visit Career Services for the full array of assistance!
