Following Up on Your Career Fair Experience

Were you one of the 500-or-so people at the Kent Campus Career Fair on April 13? Guess what? Your work's not done. Career Development Counselor Sarah Lagos has some important follow-up tips for you that will maximize the value of the time you spent  talking to some of the the 51 recruiters from the 32 different employers.

"Sometimes people forget to do a few key items after a Career Fair," Sarah points out. "Basic stuff, but don't put it off. Do it now, if you haven't already." Read on for Sarah's tips:

1. If you are interested in an employment opportunity with a specific company, follow through on the direction that the employer/recruiter gave you and let him/her know when you have done so. In conjunction with this, I recommend sending a thank-you note or email to thank them for such direction and time spent with you and to reiterate your interest in their company.

2. Also, reflect on your experience at the Career Fair: What went well? What could you have done better? Make note of these items so you can be more prepared and have an even better experience next time.

BONUS MATERIAL:

As a side note, employer feedback indicates attendees who have knowledge of their companies in advance stand out. SO, prior to attending any Career Fair, try to get a list of employers that will be in attendance so you can get the basic information and maximize your interactions with questions that exhibit your knowledge of their organizations. They will be impressed that you cared enough to be prepared.

 On Monday, May 23, 2011, Congresswoman Brown and the City of Jacksonville and Congresswoman Corrine Brown will host the 19th Annual Job and Resource Fair at the Prime Osborn Convention Center. Last year over 14,000 job seekers attended and more than 100 companies participated. For more information visit http://corrinebrown.house.gov/Flyer-2011%20JOBFAIR.pdf or call 904-354-1652.