Preparation
Name three ways you can research an employer or college.
LinkedIn, Company website, Facebook, YouTube, ask people what they know about the company, etc.
What should you do with your cell phone during a career/college fair or networking event?
If possible, turn it off or leave it in the car (if you drive there).
True / False:
There is no need for follow up after meeting a college or professional, unless there is something that you need from them now.
False!
Follow up after meeting someone to further develop that relationship. Networking is not just what they can do for you, but what you can do for them. And, you never know how your paths may intersect in the future.
True/false:
You should not let an employer or college know you are nervous.
False.
It can be helpful to note that you are nervous. Many employers expect students to be nervous during interviews, career fairs, etc.
How should you dress for a career/college fair or networking event?
Oftentimes for a fair or networking event, you can ask the event organizer (such as Career Services).
It is always better to overdress than underdress.
Avoid jeans, t-shirts, too much makeup, etc.
Use the ERIE21 clothing closet!
You take notes during an interview, career fair, or informational interview.
Notes help you remember what was said, who you met, and guide you in writing a thank you note.
What do you do if you forget to get the contact information of someone you met at a college fair, employer event or interview?
Some options might include:
-If it was a school event, you may be able to get the person's contact information from the event organizer.
-Ask friends if they met the person (if at a career fair).
-Look for the person on LinkedIn; sometimes email addresses are listed.
What can you expect to achieve at a career fair?
-Learn some general information about the company, unless you prepare specific questions. Generally, HR professionals attend, so they may not be able to give as detailed information regarding a STEM dept.
-Idea about application process.
-Many employers will have you apply online.
What is a question you might ask an employer at a career fair?
Examples:
-Ask about the duties regarding an internship or job.
-More details on the interviewing process.
-What do they look for in an ideal candidate.
Write down questions before an interview, career fair, or networking event.
Give three tips for proper body language or personal appearance when meeting an employer either in-person or online.
Examples:
-Smile.
-Sit/stand up straight. Angle your body towards them.
-Avoid speaking with food in your mouth.
Do you need to include a message when requesting a LinkedIn connection with an employer?
Yes! They meet lots of individuals, and it will help them remember you. Also, it shows that you put time and effort into following up.
What can you expect to achieve at a college fair?
-How to apply to the college.
-General information about the college.
-About college clubs and activities.
-Application requirements.
What are three things you should know before interviewing with a college or college program (EOP, CSTEP, etc.)?
Examples include:
-School mascot
-General overview about your program of interest
-Why you are interested in that college or program (not just for the money!)
-Location
-Possibly any clubs/activities of interest at the college
-How you can contribute to the college or program
Name three things that a person should do to be professional on a virtual event or interview.
Examples:
-Use a well-lit, quiet room.
-Look into the camera while speaking. Turn on your camera!
-Wear a professional outfit - head to toe.
-Test out the platform beforehand.
-Have a backup plan if you have a bad internet connection.
How long do you have until it is "too late" to send a thank you message to an employer or college recruiter?
It is always best to write a thank you note as soon as possible.
What should you expect to achieve at a networking event?
Expect to meet a variety of people. It depends on who is attending and the purpose of the event. Many times, you will not have in-depth conversations, but it will be an opportunity to follow-up with professionals to have further conversations.
What are three webpages/things you should know before meeting with an employer?
-Organization's products/services
-Job/internship opportunities
-Basic history of organization
-Mission/vision
-Review staff listing, if available
How can you tailor your elevator pitch to a company or college?
-Ask a question about their company/industry at the end of your introduction.
-Note something you learned in your research in your introduction.
An employer may call you to follow up with you. Give an example of an appropriate voicemail greeting for a student.
Example - “Hi, you’ve reached Jane Smith. I’m sorry I missed your call. Please leave a detailed message and a call back number, and I’ll get back to you as soon as possible. Thank you.”
What is the difference between how you prepare for an informational interview vs. a career fair?
An informational interview is an opportunity for an individual to ask a professional questions for advice, learn about a career, and network. It is not a job interview. Typically, you do not ask about getting a job at the company, whereas this is something you ask at a career fair. Prepare for the two differently based on the types of questions you ask.