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How to Network with Employers at a Career Fair. Chris East Letters & Science Career Services 1305 Linden Drive, Suite 205 Middleton Building. What to Expect. The 1-minute Commercial. Prepare an opening statement about yourself, including: Name Major Year in School What you have done
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How to Network with Employers at a Career Fair Chris East Letters & Science Career Services 1305 Linden Drive, Suite 205 Middleton Building
The 1-minute Commercial • Prepare an opening statement about yourself, including: • Name • Major • Year in School • What you have done • Where you are going
Survey the Land • Familiarize yourself • Observe others • Calm your nerves
Meet Employers- Start Small • Prioritize top 4-5 employers • Don’t go to your top pick first • Get comfortable talking about yourself! • Practice your elevator speech • Calm your nerves
Make a good first impression • Write legibly on nametag • Good firm handshake • Explain interest and show enthusiasm • Have well-tailored resume, just in case • Know your availability for potential interviews • Show knowledge of employer and ask relevant questions
Good Sample Questions • Other questions to be considered will depend on your goals (career exploration vs. job search) • What qualities and background are you looking for in employees? • What courses would you recommend someone take before being hired as a ______________? • What is the application process for your organization? (When you give them your resume, ask what the next step in the process is.) • Do you have a business card I could have for future reference and contact? OR Who can I contact in the future?
Other Considerations • It’s not an interview • Keep it short – there are other students waiting • Take a break if needed • Be personable and make a connection • Be sure to explain how your background and experiences make you qualified for the position Once you have finished with the recruiter, write a few quick notes about what you talked about – for future reference
Send a Thank-you email or letter • Follow-up within 24 hours • Use the business cards you collected or contact L&S Career Services if you need contact information for an employer representative from fair • Include key points you may have discussed to jog their memory (refer to your notes) • Reference the UW-Madison Career Fair • You might reiterate some of your qualifications in the thank-you note