Skip to main content

Career Fair Etiquette Tips

 
How to Get Your Next Job

It seems that Career Fair Season is upon us again.  Truly, depending on your specific career choice, recruiters may be looking for you all year.  As an etiquette consultant who routinely prepares job candidates, I’m often interviewed by local news media about this topic—which was the case recently. (video above) I always stress the importance of following a few simple rules.  So, if searching for a job or internship at the next career fair, please read on. 

Take it Seriously and Do Your Homework!

This just may be a formal interview for a real job or internship so take the job/career fair seriously.  Know what companies will be there.  Find out what the companies are working on and what they are doing so you can ask pertinent questions.  If you want a certain type of job, know what that job entails. 

Dress the Part!

Employers want employees they believe will fit into their corporate culture.  Therefore, dress the part and look as if you already fit in. 

Turn Off the Cellphone!

Recruiters share with me that job candidates tend to lose out merely because of their cellphones.  Candidates often forget to mute them, and some will even answer their phones.  At that point, the recruiter is no longer interested.  Don’t make that mistake!

Get a Babysitter

I know it can be tough, especially for single parents.  Nevertheless, it is best to arrive alone.  Taking non-essential people to the job fair sends a negative message.  It could imply that you may not be able to get to work regularly.  Yes, it may not be fair.  However, it is all about perceptions.

Body Language and People Skills Matter

Employers are looking for employees with excellent people skills.  So, use your best body language, posture, and manners.  Be assertive but be very polite. 

Asking Questions is a Good Thing

When it appears that your time with the recruiter – your mini-interview – is wrapping up, ask pertinent questions demonstrating how much you know about the company and/or the position.   Use what you learned when you researched the company.  You just may dazzle them.  

More from Rebecca

How to Get Noticed at Your College Career Fair

The Importance of an Elevator Speech

Job Searching Advice

Comments

Popular posts from this blog

Follow These Steps to Get the Job You Want

  Preparing for the Interview For over twenty years as an etiquette professional, I’ve trained countless job seekers.  Not much has changed in those decades, except our expanded use of technology.   Today, we can apply for a job using Social networking sites, such as LinkedIn.  We commonly use an email program to contact an organization’s HR department.  Additionally, we live on our cellphones.  Many times, we use these electronic appendages to reply to those HR departments and recruiters.  Some of those calls and emails could be the difference between a future job and a trip to the unemployment office.    Consequently, it would benefit all job seekers to follow a few of my suggestions.    Consider Your Use of a Cellphone Sure, texting is fast and convenient.  However, it’s not the best method to use for answering emails from a recruiter or anyone else who may be trying to assist you in your job hunt.  These replies should appear professional and well-thought-out.  Therefore,

Internships Can Lead You to Your Dream Job

  How to Get the Job You Want Let’s face it, even with the best education, the job market is a tough place to be.  It is incredibly tight and expectations of the newly hired are high. So, what is someone with little work experience to do?  As an etiquette consultant who trains job seekers, I always suggest internships for those who are still in high school and college.  Still, all can benefit from what a good internship can provide. What are the advantages and benefits of an internship? As your coworkers and supervisors evaluate you and your work habits, you are best able to evaluate how it would be to work in that business and for that particular company full time.   The internship also provides an opportunity to develop a work ethic and polish your people skills. Dealing with the scary people and learning new skills. More than likely, you will be learning new skills, as the work required may be a new experience for you.  The business may also have unique methods that yo

Job Searching Tools

You lost your job?  Unfortunately, you are in good company.  To help you on your reemployment journey, check out a few free resources to help you prepare for the job search and connect with employers like:  monster.com ,  careerbuilder.com , and   usa.gov/job-search . In mining the Internet, you can find even more than just print advice.  Many sites include videos detailing advice for preparing for the interview.  All of this is free advice and available to all who have the time to search.   However, don’t just lock yourself up in your home office. Get out and meet others in our business/career of interest.  Call companies of interest to request a meeting. Visit career centers, especially from your alma mater. And don’t forget your friends and family.  Let them know about your job search and ask for job leads.   When laid off try to view it as an opportunity to reach for the job you might not have considered possible.  Reassess your education, talents, and skills, and consider