Going to a Job Fair? Here’s How to Get an Offer

I attended a career fair this afternoon. I didn’t go as a job seeker, but as an observer. The one thing I noticed right away was that many of the people were dressed in jeans or very casually. Many of them looked bored. It’s been a long time since I learned how to dress for an interview, but I do believe the standard line dress for success still applies. You’ll want to put on a happy face – even if this may not be exactly what you’re looking for. You never know who you might meet. Just one person, one connection, could lead you to something incredible.

There are several different dress codes for interviewing. Normally, you have business, business casual and casual. You ought to feel successful in your clothes, so if something is worn or out of style, discard it. Remember, success leaves clues. Shoes are just as important as the tie you wear; they get noticed. Find out ahead of time the company’s dress code and make sure you follow it as closely as possible.

Take along several copies – and different versions – of your resume. If you have changed your phone or email, make those changes ahead of time; never just take a pen and line out information (you’ve probably seen people do this!). Your resume should be flawless; after all, it’s you on paper.

One of the best things you can do is to record yourself. Get a video recorded; prepare an introduction speech. Have a mock interview and keep practicing until you sound, and look, polished. This is one step that will put you miles ahead of your competition.

Before you go to a career or job fair, go to the individual websites and research the companies you’ll visit. Learn about them. You might want to write personalized cover letters to accompany your resume. Again, this is something many do not do. You will stand out.

Lastly, whether you’re a man or a woman, there is no excuse for a weak handshake. It makes a good impression and you know the line, you don’t get a second chance to make a great first impression.

Carrie Pepper is a freelance writer who produces articles for an organization which publishes websites on online colleges and online degree programs.