Career fairs are an excellent tool student-athletes can use to connect with future employers. Dozens of companies use a college career fair to recruit for entry-level positions. Making a good impression with a recruiter can help you get a foot in the door.
As with a game or match, a student-athlete needs to prepare the right way to assure a successful outcome. There are a few plays that you can pull from your career playbook to score a shot at a job from a career fair:
Dress for success
What you wear matters. Dress in professional business attire. If you dress like you are serious about the job, recruiters will take a serious interest in you.
Make a game plan
Do a little homework on the companies that will be there before you go. Go beyond the basic questions and ask about job duties, the company culture, advancement opportunities and other relevant details not already on the company website. Recruiters are more impressed when it doesn’t feel like you just stumbled on their booth. Make them feel like their company is your top choice.
Act professional
Recruiters will want a personal statement that outlines all the essential information about you. This is your personal elevator pitch. Your response should take a minute or two and focus in on your education, leadership abilities and what you will bring to their company. Practice it often enough that it feels natural when you recite it.
Be confident
First impressions are everything in a job interview. The same is true at a career fair. Feeling nervous is fine. Showing it can be a problem. Offer a firm handshake. Speak clearly. Look the recruiter in the eyes when you speak. These confident gestures can help mask anxiety and leave the right impression.
Lead the way
Make an effort to showcase your leadership qualities. Discuss leadership roles you have had in your athletic life and in student organizations. Share with recruiters what you learned from these roles and how they enhanced your leadership skills. Recruiters want to see how these skills will translate to the workplace.