Job & Internship Fairs
SJSU Career Center job fairs are an excellent opportunity for you to gain information about anticipated internships and job openings. It is also a great way to make contacts.
Before The Fair
Identify which organizations you want to interact with by previewing this list of participanting employers.
Logon to the Career Center’s website to
research their job descriptions so that you can target your resumes.
Prepare your resume. “Target” a resume to each employer’s job opening.
Polish your resume with a resume critique - Career Center Drop-In
Hours: Check the current semester's Career Center calendar.
Practice presenting yourself as follows:
- Introduce yourself — look confident and initiate a handshake with a smile.
Demonstrate a knowledge of the organization. Employers might also bring
short handouts for you to quickly scan.
- Prepare a one-minute commercial (your verbal portfolio) — describe your
major, career interests, work experience, extracurricular activities, and the
type of career information or job you are seeking. Show how your background
and future goals fit the organization.
Prepare questions to ask representatives:
- What is the employment outlook in the field right now?
- What type of training is available?
- What types of assignments are given to new graduates or interns?
- What do you look for in candidates? What key skills/experiences are highly
desirable?
- Do you have any other tips for success in this field?
At The Fair
Dress professionally. Visit tips on appropriate job fair and interview attire. Remember: it’s better to over dress than under dress!
-
Target those
organizations that are of interest to you.
- Pick-up and scan the employer’s
short handout. Determine if your
one-minute commercial will
remain the same.
- Introduce yourself to the
representative.
- Give your resume to the
representative. Launch into your
one-minute commercial. Ask
questions (examples are up above).
- Ask about the application
procedure. A positive attitude pays
off! Follow up — get a business
card or a contact name. Do not ask
questions about salary and
benefits.
- Bring your calendar. Be
prepared to schedule interview
appointments.
- Be patient and anticipate lines. Visit less crowded organizations
first.
- Good luck!
After The Fair
Follow up with a handwritten letter or email thanking representatives for their time and information. Include another resume and any other information requested
(completed application, recommendations, or transcripts).
Develop a post job fair plan to keep actively engaged in your job search. Attend a Career Center Interview Preparation Workshop to
prepare for success in your interviews.
Apply to open positions on SpartaJobs by uploading your resume.
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