Penn State Spring Career Days

Tips For Success

Resume and Cover Letter	Prepare Yourself	What to Wear
At the Fair	After the Fair	Interviewing

Review the detailed resume help.
Develop multiple versions of your resume.
The design of your resume must highlight the most important information about your work experience, skills and education. At first glance this information forms the image that employers have of your skills and abilities.
Use power words or verbs that match the level of position you want.
Have you thought about your cover letter? Many jobs require that you apply online after or before the career fair, be prepared with a strong cover letter.

Attend pre-fair workshops at the Career Services Center.
FIVE Easy Steps to Succeed at the Fair
Print a map of the BJC.
Identify the employers you want to meet. Recruiters select "Job Categories" not majors.
Nothing impresses an employer LESS THAN… "So what do you guys do?"
- In your 30-second introduction, be able to say WHY you are interested in an employer.
Have specific questions prepared for each recruiter at each company you meet.
Offer a firm handshake, show enthusiasm and maintain eye contact.
A 30-second commercial is something to practice and perfect. Don’t assume you will have a great answer when the time comes.
Bring your resume on a jump drive so you can print extra copies if you need to.
Know what to expect at the fair.

Know what to expect.
Go to the student registration table (Gate A or Gate B of the BJC) to receive your name tag. Remember to bring your student ID!
Be sure to carry a professional portfolio.
Bring your resume on a jump drive so you can print extra copies if you need to.
Adhere your nametag to your right chest. This way, when you reach out to shake someone’s hand, they’ll see your name.
Come prepared to talk about your professional experiences - classroom projects and internships build your credibility.
Don't spend too much time in line. Make sure you get to meet as many of the recruiters on your list as possible
Have your "thirty-second introduction" ready
Introduce yourself – include your major and graduation date. Provide additional information about your background and experiences. Offer a copy of your resume.
Indicate why you are interested in this particular employer. Obtain information about the availability of positions in your interest areas. Determine requirements to apply for a position.
Thank each recruiter for his or her time.
Always ask for business cards after meeting a company representative. After you’re done talking with them, take notes on the back of the card and use those notes to draft a personalized thank you note.
You stand out and make a better impression on your own. Don't stick with a group of friends.

After the fair concludes, jot down notes about conversations you had with company representatives. If you wait too long, the conversations will start running together in your head, and you'll forget what you said to whom. (How to Follow-up After the Fair)
Follow up on promises. If, for example, a company representative expressed interest in looking at your Web site, make sure to email the URL like you said you would.
Within a few days, send a thank you note to each recruiter with whom you talked – especially if you are considering future opportunities with the organization.
Registering with Nittany Lion Career Network gives you access to job listings, on-campus interviews, resume posting, information sessions and more.
Remember to apply online after the Fair if the recruiter instructs you to!
Network with anyone (friends, family, faculty, alumni of Penn State) who will give you information on career opportunities or job openings.
Don't know what to do next? Drop-in to see a Career Counselor (no appointment necessary, Monday-Friday, 8:30am - 5:00pm) or call 814-865-2377 for cover letter help, mock interview practice, or other questions.

Catch the interviewer's interest with something unique about you.
Ask what a perfect candidate would be like.
Research the company BEFORE the fair and interview.
Show your research - mention something you have learned about the organization.
Know the job description - Reviewing the job description will help you customize your answers by addressing the specific needs of the organization and requirements of the position to your skill set.
Keep your answers to questions short and to the point.
More interview tips on the Career Services website
If you are getting interviews but missing out on opportunities, consult with a career counselor. Understanding how to tackle hard questions is an art that can be mastered. (No appointment necessary, Monday-Friday, 8:30am - 5:00pm) or call 814-865-2377.