Nathan Said:

I'm writing up a resume for a career fair at my university. should I list the scholarships I have earned?

We Answered:

It depends. Do you have a lot of jobs that you can add to your resume that will help you get a job? If you need to add them (along with other activities from college) to fill some space, that's fine. Your resume shouldn't be longer than a page though, since you're young.

Raul Said:

Why do so many companies come to a university career fair if they aren't hiring?

We Answered:

There are a couple of reasons:

1. Companies work hard to develop a good working relationship with the different universities they recruit at. It is a long term investment. In difficult times like this, not showing up lets the university down and damages that relationship. "Good companies" will still show up if they can possibly afford it.

2. While they may not have any immediate openings, there is always the chance that they will run across a fabulous candidate or that something might open up tomorrow or the next day. As a past college campus recruiter, I know it happens! The rule "never say never" applies. If they can't hire the person now, they may circle back with them later!

3. Even though it is tough in this situation, the companies would like to try to establish a good reputation with university graduates. The economy will turn around. If they spend some time with you today, you may remember them and consider them when they have openings in the future.

From the perspective of a job seeker, I know this can be discouraging. All you can do is be persistent and try your best not to take the "we have no jobs" response personally. Stay positive and keep selling yourself! You may just be that fantastic candidate!

Alma Said:

What's the best idea for a career fair give-away?

We Answered:

It depends what your company does. Go with a theme. Like the electric company handing out lightbulb-shaped stress balls. They sound lame, but are fun! Go with something useful, like pens or notepads or calculators.
I love the catalog I get from Atlas Pen & Pencil Corp. They have TONS of stuff there.

Dianne Said:

HELP! Need help choosing a suit for an interview (in my University's career fair)?

We Answered:

You should wear the gray suit, a white shirt, and a solid dark blue or dark red tie.

Janet Said:

Is a career in property worth pursuing after university? What are the benefits/drawbacks?

We Answered:

I don't think it'd be worth it.

Kyle Said:

Job Fair- How to approach the company afterwards?

We Answered:

Send an email with your resume to the two contacts you have. Mention that you met someone from the company at a job fair and would like to explore what opportunities they have. Then wait for a reply. If you don't hear from them, you will then have to appy online.

Enrique Said:

How can I make the most out of Careers Fairs?

We Answered:

Career fairs are good and bad. Speaking from an HR perspective in which I have actually been involved in setup, interviewing applicants, etc. during fairs. It's a huge meat market and often most company's participate to gather resumes for government reporting purposes and to also fulfill their obligations to say they are actively seeking hires. Not saying that this is in your case.

Now, as far as what you need to do....

1) Bring A LOT of clean resumes with you.
2) Know specifically what it is you are looking for before approaching anyone.
3) Don't monopolize any recruiter's time while their--be brief and succint. If someone takes your resume, they will view it once they
get back to their location.
4) If you get a business card from someone, calling them is optional. They may not remember you from the fair actually.
5) If they are interviewing on the spot, and you know who will be their please research the companies you are interested in.
6) To polish your interviewing skills, approach a recruiter who is not speaking to someone and inquire about their opportunites-even if not interested. This will help you with your impromptu communication.