Career Fair Advice from Employers

Tips

Talking to employers at a career fair is, in the mind of employer, a mini-interview. It is a 30-second to two-minute interview and you have to be prepared. You are being rated in those few seconds or minutes on how you present yourself. Be prepared to explain your qualifications and skills and describe how you will be an asset to the employer's organization.

An Employer's View

by Paul O'Donnell
Head, National Recruiting
The Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS)

After interviewing hundreds of applicants for our agency, I have a few tidbits of advice for those going through the process. First, although it may seem trite, be yourself. Interviewers, such as myself, value authenticity, genuine interest, and passion. This is actually more important than the name or status of the company you've worked for. If you've walked dogs part-time for the past four years, tell me all about it, why you like it, what skills you've learned (you may be surprised), how the dogs were better off after than before, etc.

Another point: be proactive. Use the career fair and interview to determine whether you want to work for this company, organization or firm. When you take this attitude, you project confidence. What does the actual job entail? Is this something you would like doing? Does it build on your skills and personality strengths? Try not to be overly swayed by monetary compensation or job status. In the years ahead, these questions usually fade in importance.

Interviewers are in the business of eliminating candidates (there are too many to choose from). Don't give them easy grounds for doing so. First impressions count. Get sleep the night before, brush your teeth, dress appropriately, make eye contact and do your homework. On this last point, make sure you know your own résumé. Why did you choose the major you did? Why did you work where you did, what specifically were you responsible for and what did you learn while there.

Know the organization you are meeting with and later on interviewing with. What are some of the burning issues within the organization and within their field of business? Have they just gone public or been reorganized? Who is their principal competition? How can you help them? Try to avoid obvious questions (i.e. ones that can easily be answered from a quick read of the organization's homepage or annual report).

Finally, don't forget to follow-up. Write a brief thank you note to the person you met at the career fair and the person who interviewed you (ask for his or her business card to get spelling, title, and address correct). In your note, restate some concrete points made during the initial meeting or interview. Too many people overlook this highly effective and easily completed task.

Good luck!