Published on Sep 14, 2021
Are you interested in getting your career started, but have no clue where to start? Here at Mizzou, we’ve got you covered!
What is a career fair?
A career fair is a great way to engage with recruiters and network with professionals in the industry you want. It gives the recruiters a chance to get to know you so that they can gauge whether you’d be a good fit for their company, whether it’s for an internship or full career. Think of it as a fancy ice-cream social.
When should I start going to career fairs?
Networking sounds like something you do during senior year, but it’s not. It’s never too early to start making connections. Here at Mizzou, we give you tons of chances at career fairs, no matter what grade you’re in. In fact, here are a few upcoming ones:
- 9/28/21: Textile and Apparel Management Virtual Career Fair
- 9/28/21: MU Virtual Health Professions and Nursing Career Opportunities Fair
- 9/29/21: CAFNR/Arts and Science Career and Internship Fair
- 9/30/21: Accounting & Business Career Fair
- 10/20/21: Mizzou-Wide Virtual Career Fair
But it doesn’t stop there! There are many more opportunities for colleges across campus. Find our updated list here!
How do I prepare for career fairs?
Talking to strangers is intimidating, but we’re here to help. Here are some tips to help you get ready for career fairs.
1. Prepare Ahead of Time
a. It’s always good to see who’s going to be at the career fair. That way, you can see who you’d like to talk to and do more research on who they are and what they do. You can download the Career Fair Plus app to dig around for opportunities and company history. This way, you’re fully prepared to blow recruiters away.
2. Prepare Your Elevator Pitch
a. You’re going to have to introduce yourself. A good way to do that is by memorizing a mini speech with important information that the recruiter needs to know. Tell them who you are, your school, then your major. Follow up with what you’re looking for in a career or internship, and the experience you have that you want to build up on. To see an example and some tips on how to build your pitch, look here.
3. Follow Up with some Good Questions
a. After you introduce yourself, the recruiter will ask you questions. Be prepared to answer them, and be even more prepared to ask them questions. How will you benefit their company, and what parts of their position will help you in your goals? Being ready to make conversation lets them know you’re really interested.
4. Update your Resume
a. Paper resumes might be a thing of the past but resumes in general are not. This is the perfect time to start building, if not editing, your resume. Resumes should look different every year, so make sure that you keep up with it. Here are some examples of what your resume should look like depending on your year, and Here you can find some suggestions depending on your major..
It’s okay to feel a little nervous about going to a career fair. One thing you can always rely on is Mizzou. Go to Hire Mizzou Tigers for more information.