Advice from Baruch’s Division of Continuing and Professional Studies (CAPS)
Career fairs can play an important part in finding the right job. According to Aimee Stretton, Baruch College adjunct professor of human resources in the Division of Continuing and Professional Studies (CAPS) and a former corporate recruiter, corporate trainer, and manager in operations, some commonsense planning and preparation can help you stand out from the crowd. Here are her go-to tips for today’s tough market.
Prepare, prepare, prepare. Research each company whose rep you hope to speak with. Look at the company’s website for basic information and to review the open positions. Be ready for such common questions as “Why do you want to work for our company?”
Preregister. You’ll get the list of companies attending before the event. Get the fair floor plan, too, and map your route strategically, visiting the companies you are most interested in first.
Think outside the box. Don’t eliminate companies because they are recruiting for positions outside your field.
Make an impression. Dress professionally, offer a firm handshake and a warm smile, make eye contact, speak up. Prepare a one-minute “commercial” that focuses on the unique benefits you can offer.
Network. Don’t just drop your resume on the recruiter’s table and walk off. Be sure to speak with the recruiter. Ask about the hiring process at each company (but don’t ask about salaries, vacation time, and other benefits). Get the recruiter’s business card (and make relevant notes on the back of it).
Work the lines. Use your wait time to exchange job-hunting ideas and leads with other job seekers, review notes on the company you’re about to “visit,” size up the recruiters and observe interactions between recruiters and other prospective applicants. (Be sure to wear comfortable business shoes!)
Diversify. Bring different versions of your resume if you are searching for different types of jobs, and make sure you have enough copies of each.
Follow up. After the career expo, follow up with each recruiter either by phone or e-mail. Apply online immediately if a recruiter has asked you to.
Best of luck!
REGISTER NOW Baruch alumni get a 15% discount on all CAPS classes*.
For the schedule of classes and additional information on Baruch’s Continuing and Professional Studies, visit www.baruched.com.
* ESL classes are not discountable.