Career and Employment
Services (CES)

Step 1: Before the Career Fair

• Do some preliminary research on the companies you’ve chosen and prepare questions to ask

• Identify the skills and interests you want to market to employers and refine your resume

• Talk to employers! It may seem intimidating but that’s why they’ve come to campus… to talk to you!

• Be prepared – it helps you relax and lets the conversation flow naturally

• Make an effort to put your best foot forward – dress up, smile, take a deep breath and be yourself!

• Start by introducing yourself: Hi, my name is _____. I am a 4th year psychology student.

• What do you do in a typical day?

• What are the organization’s products and services?

• How is your company organized? Do you promote within?

• What can I do to prepare myself for this career area?

• What skills and qualities are necessary in this career?

• What do you find most rewarding/frustrating about your work?

• Keep well organized records during your research – either on paper or in a database.

• Collect business cards.

• Include information such as:
  • Contact Person (and correct spelling of their name)
  • Job Title
  • Name/Address/Telephone Number/Website

• Record notes on information you have collected for the future

• Target your job search and Call/Contact each company
  • Ask for your contact person or HR manager by name
  • Introduce yourself from the U of L Career Fair; mention your program and job search goals (ie. Full time employment, etc.)

• Ask for a few minutes of their time to ask them questions about their company, any existing openings, or anyone else you could speak to that might be looking to hire University students/graduates in that field

Always get at least one name or lead to contact for next time!