by Mitali Temurnikar, Graduate Assistant
Do’s
- Do have a latest version of your Resume prepared. Some recruiters ask for a hard copy. Have them ready if you can. (Resource: https://careerservices.upenn.edu/channels/resume/)
- Do try to pre-read the list of organizations that will be coming on the fair day and do a little background research on their work.
- Do prepare an “elevator pitch” on your educational background, professional goals, and strengths. (Resource: https://careerservices.upenn.edu/videos/networking-elevator-pitch/)
- Do be prepared to talk about what makes you interested in the particular organization and the particular role.
- Do prepare yourself with a list of 2-3 questions that you would like to ask the recruiter.
- Do show genuine curiosity in the information that the recruiter is sharing.
- Do grab their business card if available or get their contact information if they are working in an organization that interests you.
- Do send thank you notes or follow-ups to recruiters who helped you.
- Do ask questions for your own professional development, such as, “what is a non-negotiable skill that you would like to see in college graduates that you’re looking to hire?”
- Do dress professionally. Business casual is always a good idea.
- Do network – talk to as many people as you can. Fairs are a place to broaden your network!
- Do approach every conversation with enthusiasm and curiosity!
- Do make sure that if you use LinkedIn, your account is up to date. (Resource: https://careerservices.upenn.edu/videos/how-to-give-your-linkedin-profile-a-quick-update/)
Don’ts
- Don’t expect to walk out with a job offer in hand.
- Don’t skip an organization only because they are not hiring for the role that you are looking for at the moment. It is always worth it to build a connection!
- Don’t just drop off your resume or sign-up on their sheets without talking to the recruiter!
- Don’t stress while talking to the recruiter; they are most likely to be as interested in you as you are in their organization.
- Don’t get distracted or divert your attention while they’re speaking to you.
- Don’t walk up to a booth and interrupt an on-going conversation. Stay calm and wait until it is your turn.
- Don’t ask obvious questions such as, “Tell me a little more about your company”, or “What brings you here?” Research as much and as well as you can beforehand!
- Don’t walk up to the employer JUST for the freebies!
