Microsoft is coming to town…

…as well as Apple, Inc., Bloomingdales, CBS, and 170 other companies that are looking to hire Trojans this Thursday. If you’re a business student, Marshall is hosting their bi-annual Marshall Reception tomorrow night, which over 45 employers will attend to network with students.
 
But before you do, PREPARE, PREPARE, PREPARE with these tips:
 
Clarify your goals. What do you hope to get out of the career fair--information about employers? A chance to meet a representative from a particular company? An overview of the job market? Make sure your expectations are consistent with the purpose of the event.
Research the companies in advance. Review the list of attending employers on connectSC up until the day of for the most recent information. Identify those that are looking for candidates with your qualifications. Write down a few questions about the organization that you can ask the representative.
Prepare a one-minute introduction about yourself. In addition to stating your name, major, and the type of position you seek, express why you are interested in the organization or field. Briefly relate your background to what you know about the employer's needs. Practice your introduction until you feel comfortable with it. This will make you feel and appear more confident, organized, and focused.
Bring your resume. Make sure you have enough copies of your resume; between 20 and 30 is usually sufficient. Be sure to include your phone number and e-mail address on your resume.
During the event, prioritize your time. Take a few minutes before you enter the line to review the list of attending companies. Highlight and prioritize those you are most interested in so you can organize your time efficiently. Instead of standing in line to talk to a particular employer, circulate and come back later.
First impressions are lasting impressions. Dress and act professionally.
Broaden your focus. Many technical firms offer non-technical positions, and vice-versa. You'll be surprised how many employers are looking for candidates with a solid liberal arts background, and internship or co-op experience.
Follow up. Since you have business cards and company information, you can write individualized follow-up letters to appropriate employers, expressing your continuing interest. (Include another copy of your resume.) If you can, mention something you discussed in your conversation at the job fair.
 
Click here for more http://careers.usc.edu/students/handouts.