Get your resume ready - Career Week is here
The annual Career and Summer
Job Fair takes place on February 5
in J Gym at the London campus,
and it's your chance to connect
with representatives from nearly
90 local and area organizations
from a variety of industries.
The most important thing you can do before the Fair is research, said Deb Bomans, who is spearheading the team behind the event. Check out www.fanshawec.ca/careerservices for a full list of employers, and make a list of the places you want to see. Think of a few questions to ask the representatives at the booth, but be prepared to answer some questions about yourself as well. Some people recommend coming up with a 30-second “elevator pitch” that sums up who you are, what you're looking for, and what makes you a standout candidate for a position.
While some employers are only seeking workers for the summer months, “if you're really looking to establish your career, then you need to have a career-focused resume,” Bomans said. After doing your research on the Career Services website, create resumes specific to the companies you'd like to work for — the experts in Career Services can help with that. Make an appointment with them by calling 519-452-4294 or dropping by their office in D1063.
Make sure you put your best foot forward by dressing appropriately for the Fair, Bomans said. “If at all possible, I would encourage students to dress business casual. We don't need a three-piece suit, but we sure don't need pajamas either,” she laughed. “Just be neat and clean and tidy; [have a] big smile and a firm handshake.”
It's fine if you're a bit nervous — in fact, a lot of employers will expect you to be, Bomans said. “It's a whole lot easier to do at this stage of the game because employers are, let's say, more forgiving, because they understand that this is new for you, this whole networking thing.” Even though it can be a bit intimidating heading to the Fair on your own, it's a lot more professional to go by yourself, not with a group of friends.
Spent about 10 to 15 minutes with each employer — don't take up all their time, but don't be in a rush to get away — and be sure to ask for a business card before saying goodbye. Jot down some notes after meeting with each representative: What sounded good about the business? What didn't? What did they mention they're looking for, and how can you make yourself a more attractive candidate for a position with them?
A few days after the Fair, follow up with the employers to thank them for the chat. If you promised you'd do something for them — send a sample of your work, for example — make sure you do it.
The Career and Summer Job Fair is a great networking opportunity, so make the most of it. To fully prepare for the Fair with help from the experts at Career Services, don't miss the Career Fair Prep Drop-In Workshop from 10 to 11 a.m. on February 4. Sign up in D1063.
The most important thing you can do before the Fair is research, said Deb Bomans, who is spearheading the team behind the event. Check out www.fanshawec.ca/careerservices for a full list of employers, and make a list of the places you want to see. Think of a few questions to ask the representatives at the booth, but be prepared to answer some questions about yourself as well. Some people recommend coming up with a 30-second “elevator pitch” that sums up who you are, what you're looking for, and what makes you a standout candidate for a position.
While some employers are only seeking workers for the summer months, “if you're really looking to establish your career, then you need to have a career-focused resume,” Bomans said. After doing your research on the Career Services website, create resumes specific to the companies you'd like to work for — the experts in Career Services can help with that. Make an appointment with them by calling 519-452-4294 or dropping by their office in D1063.
Make sure you put your best foot forward by dressing appropriately for the Fair, Bomans said. “If at all possible, I would encourage students to dress business casual. We don't need a three-piece suit, but we sure don't need pajamas either,” she laughed. “Just be neat and clean and tidy; [have a] big smile and a firm handshake.”
It's fine if you're a bit nervous — in fact, a lot of employers will expect you to be, Bomans said. “It's a whole lot easier to do at this stage of the game because employers are, let's say, more forgiving, because they understand that this is new for you, this whole networking thing.” Even though it can be a bit intimidating heading to the Fair on your own, it's a lot more professional to go by yourself, not with a group of friends.
Spent about 10 to 15 minutes with each employer — don't take up all their time, but don't be in a rush to get away — and be sure to ask for a business card before saying goodbye. Jot down some notes after meeting with each representative: What sounded good about the business? What didn't? What did they mention they're looking for, and how can you make yourself a more attractive candidate for a position with them?
A few days after the Fair, follow up with the employers to thank them for the chat. If you promised you'd do something for them — send a sample of your work, for example — make sure you do it.
The Career and Summer Job Fair is a great networking opportunity, so make the most of it. To fully prepare for the Fair with help from the experts at Career Services, don't miss the Career Fair Prep Drop-In Workshop from 10 to 11 a.m. on February 4. Sign up in D1063.
