• Research to find out which companies will be in attendance. Make a list of the employers that interest you and visit their websites. Employers are impressed with applicants who demonstrate a familiarity with the organization, have prepared intelligent questions to ask and have thought about the way they might fit into the organization. • Take copies of your resume to leave with employers. • Do not shove your resume at the employer; ask if they would accept a copy. If the employer declines your resume, there are reasons why. They may instruct you to apply online; make sure you follow their instructions. • Avoid taking candy and promotional items unless invited to do so. • Unlike a regular job interview, you may only have a short amount of time to speak with a recruiter. The more prepared you are, the better the first impression you will make. • Develop a 30-second “elevator speech” about yourself. Highlight the benefits that you would bring to the company. Remember, this face-to- face interaction is important to getting an interview. (See the Elevator Speech heading for guidelines.) • A job fair gives you the opportunity to present yourself in a way you might not be able to on your resume. Interpersonal skills, communication skills and business social skills are critical.
• Remember that employers take into account your smile, handshake and attire when forming their impression. Look professional by dressing in business attire. • Do not be overzealous and say that you will take any job they have. Show your enthusiasm but have a specific target career in mind. • Ask for their business card and after the job fair, send an email or thank you letter to those individuals with whom you established personal contact. It is very important to follow up with employers that have positions you are interested in . Elevator Speech In every job search, introductions will be required, so an applicant will need to develop an “elevator speech.” This speech is used when introducing yourself to potential employers, reaching out to new networking contacts and in interview situations. In this brief (30–60 seconds) speech, the applicant communicates the who, what and where of their job search. When drafting an “elevator speech,” the applicant should follow this outline: • Who—Who are you? Include information about your education and credentials, employment history, internships, clinical experiences and professional affiliations. • What—What skills and experience do you have to offer an employer? • Where—Type of position or opportunity you are seeking.
Elevator Speech Example Outline
• Jordan Brown • Graduate of CCAC with an Associate of Science in Criminal Justice • Internship with the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, Zone 1
Who are you?
• Gathered evidence from crime scenes, completed reports, assisted with crowd control and traffic accidents • Work as a security guard with ABC Security at ZYX apartment complex • Worked as a laborer/landscaper for a home remodeling
What skills and experience?
• Full-time position with a local police department within Pennnsylvania
Type of position/ opportunity you are seeking
CCAC Job Search Manual 7
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