Preparing for a career fair can be a daunting task, but with the right strategy and mindset, you can approach the event with confidence and ease. Our “Stress Less and Prepare for Expo” workshop offers a step-by-step guide to help you make the most of your time and connections. Here’s everything you need to know to succeed at the Internship and Career Expo and beyond.
1. Identify and Research Employers in Handshake
Handshake is your go-to tool for researching career fairs and identifying potential employers. Here’s how to get started:
- Log into Handshake: Navigate to the “Events” section and select the Internship and Career Expo.
- Review Participating Employers: Handshake provides a list of attending employers, along with job postings and company details.
- Create a Target List: Save and prioritize your “top 5-10” employers to focus your efforts. This “hot list” will ensure you meet your key targets first.
- Research Each Employer: Visit company websites, LinkedIn profiles, and Glassdoor reviews to learn about their mission, values, services, and recent accomplishments. Pay attention to job descriptions and note any key skills they’re seeking.
2. Before the Career Fair: Prepare Yourself and Your Materials
Upgrade Your Attire
Professional attire is essential. If you need to enhance your wardrobe, consider:
- JCPenney Suit-Up Event: Get up to 45% off professional wear at the Florida Mall.
- Style Encore at Waterford Lakes: Discounted attire closer to campus.
- Knights Pantry: Borrow professional clothing, including blazers.
Perfect Your Resume
Your resume is your calling card:
- Resume Critiques: Take advantage of drop-in resume review sessions every Monday and Friday from 1-4 PM.
- Tailor for Roles: Customize your resume based on the roles you’re targeting. Highlight relevant skills and achievements.
Craft Your Elevator Pitch
Your elevator pitch introduces you to recruiters in 30-60 seconds. Follow the Present-Past-Future format:
- Present: What are you currently studying? What’s your major or program?
- Past: Highlight a recent relevant experience (e.g., internship, research project, volunteer work).
- Future: State your career goals and explain why you’re excited to connect with this employer.
Practice your pitch using VMock, a smart AI tool that provides feedback and allows video recordings for self-assessment or make an appointment in Handshake with a career counselor.
Plan for Fast Pass Events
Attending preparatory events like Industry Days can earn you a “Fast Pass,” which grants early access to the Expo. These events also provide opportunities to network with recruiters in a lower pressure setting.
3. During the Career Fair: Shine in the Moment
Navigate the Event
- Bring Copies of Your Resume: Ensure you have enough for all your target employers and extras for impromptu opportunities.
- Organize Your Materials: Use a padfolio or folder to keep resumes, notes, and business cards organized.
- Take Notes: Jot down key points from your conversations with recruiters to personalize your follow-up messages.
Ask Thoughtful Questions
Show recruiters that you’ve done your homework. Example questions include:
- “What qualities do you look for in new candidates?”
- “Can you share more about the career trajectory within your company?”
- “What’s the best way to stay in touch with you after the fair?”
4. After the Career Fair: Follow Up and Reflect
Send Thank-You Notes
Within 24 hours, send personalized thank-you emails to the recruiters you spoke with. Include:
- A brief recap of your conversation.
- An expression of gratitude.
- A question or statement to keep the dialogue going.
Leverage Feedback Tools
- Big Interview: Practice your interview skills with this online tool.
- VMock Resume Reviews: Use its advanced features, like ATS (Applicant Tracking System) compatibility checks, to fine-tune your application materials.
5. Stress Less Tips
Breathing Exercises
Use a simple breathing technique to stay calm:
- Inhale for 4 seconds.
- Hold your breath for 4 seconds.
- Exhale for 4 seconds.
- Repeat this cycle for 1-2 minutes to center yourself.
Build a Positive Mindset
- Focus on what you can control, like preparation and presentation.
- Remember: Success is a journey. Treat every interaction as a learning opportunity.
Use Campus Resources
UCF offers Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) for additional support. Sometimes, talking through your stress with a professional can help you regain perspective.
6. Additional Resources
- Career Services Workshops: Join Workshop Wednesdays to cover topics like resume building, interviewing, and job searching.
- Handshake Appointments: Schedule one-on-one sessions to discuss career planning or job search strategies.
- Career Readiness Competencies: Focus on building skills like critical thinking, communication, and professionalism to stand out to employers.
Final Thoughts
Preparing for a career expo doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With careful planning, confidence-building exercises, and the wealth of resources available at UCF, you’re already on the path to success. Remember: The key to reducing stress is preparation. Start today, and you’ll walk into the Expo ready to shine!
