Based on feedback from our employer organizations and our experience we want to provide you with a few pieces of advice for approaching a career and internship fair. Remember, our staff is here to help you! You can make an appointment with one of our career advisors for additional guidance and support.
Prepare your Resume
- Your resume should reflect your most recent experiences.
- Make an appointment to have your resume reviewed by a career advisor.
- Attend a resume clinic, or pop in theCareer Studio.
- Submit your resume via Rutgers Handshake before the fair to demonstrate you are a serious candidate.
- Bring enough copies of your resume and business cards to the event.
Make A Game Plan
- Decide which employers you want to meet at the fair. You can view a full list of all employers attending the fair on Rutgers Handshake.
- Research the employer, and pick out some specifics on the organization that you can talk about at the fair, like their vision or mission statement for example.
Practice your Elevator Pitch
- A good elevator pitch is a short summary of who you are, why you are there, and the unique qualities you can offer.
- Practice in front of friends, relatives, or use InterviewStream, our new mock-interview service available through Rutgers Handshake resources section.
Prepare a List of Questions to Ask Employers
- These questions should be pertinent to the employer.
- Check out the Career Exploration and Success Career & Internship Guide for ideas.
- Write down the questions, and remember to bring a copy with you to the fair.
Listen to Other Candidates
- While waiting in line at a booth, listen to some of the questions the recruiters are asking the other candidates.
- You will feel more confident about your responses when it is your turn to speak with them.
- Send Thank-You notes to employer organizations. Keep the business cards of the recruiters you spoke with, and send a follow-up email. You can take notes about your conversation on the back of the business cards. and include that information in your email later, making you stand out from the crowd. Remember, follow up is key!