Employee Spotlight: What do companies say about career fairs?
Part 1:
by Allison Biggs, University Relations Recruiter, GROWMARK
Top 4 List when preparing for a career fair:
1. Bring Resume
2. Dress in a traditional suit- or at least business casual
3. Elevator Pitch- 30 second self introduction for recruiters to get to know you
4. Research your top 5-10 companies in advance
It is important that students attend career fairs and meet with employers. This is the only time students will have the chance to meet and network with a number of different companies and learn about the opportunities available to them. I would highly encourage freshmen and sophomore students to attend career fairs and get to know recruiters in advance. This will allow them to build a network of professionals that they can keep in contact with. When they are eligible for intern programs or full time employment they can utilize that network.
Recruiters appreciate when students prepare in advance by learning about their company and viewing their company website. It is not necessary to memorize facts, dates, or financial information; but know about the industry the company operates in and review their careers page. Students become more attractive when they have an initial understanding of the company and can demonstrate how their experiences can benefit the company in an internship for full time opportunity.