(The following was previously shared on LinkedIn’s “Penn State Career Connection”, by Samantha Dunn, an HR Associate at Swiss Re.)
Obviously the number one purpose of going to a career fair is to obtain a job. But with employers seeing hundreds to thousands of candidates a year, how do you stand out? Below are a few tips to help you leave a memorable impression.
1. Look the part – You can never change a first impression. Let employers know you are serious about your job search, by looking that way.
2. Show your personality – This is a way for you to connect with the recruiter. We love to know what makes you unique and it allows recruiters to have a direct memory of your conversation.
3. Research the organizations you are interested in – It is a big negative if you pronounce the company’s name incorrectly. Know who you are talking to and why you are interested in them. Recruiters love candidates that engage with them and ask relevant questions. However, don’t be afraid to go up to a company that you have not heard of. Recruiters are happy to educate potential candidates on what their company does and how it could be a great fit for the candidate.
4. Confidence is key – The more confidence you have, the better you present yourself in an articulate manner. Caution though, there is a fine line between confidence and bragging.
5. Apply to the roles you are interested in. You should do this quickly following the career fair, if not before. Campus recruiting season is short, so the more timely you are with your application the better your chances for an interview.