On Wed., April 6, Sinclair Student and Community Engagement will be hosting the 17th Annual Career Exploration and Job Fair. The event will last from 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. and will take place in the Great Hall in Building 12.
Career fairs, as described by The Student and Community Engagement Office, are “An excellent opportunity to network with various organizations and learn about potential job openings.” Because there are at least 80 businesses planning to attend the fair, preparing for this event is of the utmost importance.
The Student and Community Engagement Office offers help with building an effective resume, information on appropriate dress, and how to effectively conduct oneself in a job interview. The staff will conduct mock job interviews with students to help recognize strengths and correct weaknesses before the student makes a mistake in front of a potential employer.
Students can make a one-on-one appointment with staff members at the office where they will go over the student’s resume and make any necessary changes. This can help students recognize their strengths and weaknesses and work on them. On March 31, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., there will be an open resume review. Students can go to the Tartan Marketplace with no appointment to have a staff member review their resume.
Matt Massie, manager of the Student and Community Engagement Office, explained that Career Fairs are a fantastic opportunity for students. “Why wouldn’t you [come]?” he laughed. Massie said Career Fairs are an extremely efficient way to visit multiple employers at once.
“The time value is just tremendous,” he said, Career Fairs are a “matchmaker” for students and employers.
Sinclair Student and Community Engagement put together a list of tips concerning job fairs to set students up for the most possible success:
- Learn Who’s Coming Ahead of Time
Generally, one can learn the names of most, if not all, of the employers who plan to participate in a career fair ahead of time. Narrow the list down to those of most interest and begin to research their products/services and employment needs. Upon entering the career fair, obtain the program and scan the list of companies to verify the earlier list and perhaps adjust the order of companies to speak with.
- Prepare a 45-Second Summary of Qualifications
Career fairs offer only brief contact with organizations, so be prepared to make the most of this time. Prepare an interesting verbal summary of background, achievements, and career interests so there won’t be any fumbling for words at the wrong time.
- Dress for Success
The first impression is critical, so dress in conservative, well-fitting, well-pressed clothing. How one looks will play a big part in determining employer interest.
- Take the Right Things With You
Take along a supply of resumes on resume paper and a list of references. Carry an attractive pen and binder or portfolio with a note pad. It may be a good idea to invest in business cards with your information as well.
- Ask Appropriate Questions
Ask them about their company and show interest in what they do. As you leave each employer, learn what happens next and what, if anything, you should do to advance your candidacy. Be sure to THANK THEM for their time and interest.
- Do Not Expect Job Offers
Simply gather as much information as possible. Use this opportunity to learn from these representatives. This is an excellent opportunity to explore companies and help determine which work setting fits your needs.
- Follow up, Follow up, Follow up
Follow up on any conversation with a representative that was of interest with a letter or thank-you card. Express appreciation for the time given. Mention why you want to work for the organization, and ask for an interview. Give a phone number where one can be reached, ideally, day and evening.
Micah Karr
Reporter