The Encounter is your opportunity to interact with local employers and discuss job vacancies without having to leave campus! It is important to make the best impression you possibly can. Here are some general tips for attending internship & part-time job fairs. 

Preparation

  • Understand the purpose of an employment fair. The Encounter and similar events hosted by Career Opportunities are events at which students can meet and interact with employers to discuss available positions, desired qualifications, and application procedures. 
  • Determine your need for a part-time job or internship. Are you looking to gain relevant experience in your chosen major? Or are you just looking for a job to pay the bills? 
  • Plan ahead which employers you want to speak with and research the companies products, services, and general information so you can spend your time discussing your qualifications and interest in the job. 
  • Develop an effective Resume and have it checked by a Career Counselor. Resume Walk-in Hours are available as well for quick feedback on your current draft. 
  • Print extra copies of your resume to bring to The Encounter. You should also have copies of when you are available to work since most employers will work with your school schedule within reason.

Behavior

  • You want to show the employers that you take their businesses and your desire to work there seriously. While The Encounter is less formal than the Fall & Spring Career Expos for full-time employment, it is still important to present yourself in a professional manner.
  • Introduce yourself confidently, give a firm handshake, and make eye contact. Smile and be yourself. Give the employer a good impression of your friendliness, professionalism, and poise.
  • Be ready to discuss your past experiences and skills. Remember that experience can be paid or unpaid, and can include leadership roles in organization and volunteer work. 
  • Invite your friends to take advantage of The Encounter as well, but branch out on your own once you get to the event. Chances are you will not bring your friends to work with you, so do not plan on bringing them to the interview.

Appearance

  • Your attire is another way to show the employers you take their time and businesses seriously. You do not have to dress in Business Professional as you would for a full-time career expo, but Business Casual is highly encouraged. 
  • There is a difference between Business Casual and just plain Casual. Review our Professional Image information for acceptable attire at The Encounter.
  • Always err on the side of clean and conservative. You want to be remembered for your skills and experiences rather than your clothes and appearance. 

Applying for Jobs

  • Speak to as many employers as possible to learn about opportunities. Do not make assumptions about the types of available jobs by the type of employer. 
  • Collect business cards or brochures from employers you may be interested in, even if you are not able to apply for the job this semester. You may be able to work for that employer when your school schedule changes and you will have already made a good first impression.
  • Follow through with any suggestions or instructions the recruiters give you. If they say apply online, be sure to complete the online application. 

And lastly but most importantly, keep a positive, persistent attitude! Finding a part-time job or internship is competitive business, especially at the start of a school year when students flood back into town looking for jobs. Instead of getting discouraged, take advantage of the services available to you through Career Opportunities. We are here to help!

 

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