Start Strong

• • Show confidence.
  • Have a good firm handshake and a sincere smile.
  • Speak clearly and slowly in a friendly and pleasant manner.
  • Have a positive attitude; employers are looking for enthusiastic candidates who show genuine interest in their company and job opportunities.
  • Maintain eye contact.
  • Remember that 90 percent of communication is non-verbal. How you dress, how you stand, your tone of voice, eye contact, handshake, smile, level of enthusiasm, are all important.
    

    Use a Formula

    • Name.
    • Class (senior, junior, sophomore).
    • Major.
    • Opportunities that you are seeking.
    • Relevant experience (work, internship, volunteer work).
    • Highlights of skills and strengths.
    • Knowledge of the company.

    Examples

    “Hi, my name is ….. I’m very pleased to meet you. I am a _____ (major) and I will be graduating in _____. I am very interested in your ______ position. Can you tell me a little bit more about it?

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    “Hi, my name is …. It’s very nice to meet you. I am a ____ (major) and I will be graduating in ____. I am very interested in positions that will take advantage of my skills in ____, ____, and ____. Do you have any positions that are seeking these skills?”

    Important tip: If you say you hold a particular skill, make sure you give an example of that skill from previous experience.

    After the Introduction

    • Ask questions to show you are interested and demonstrate you have researched the employer and/or position.
    • Give examples of your skills and qualifications. Be able to talk about what you have to offer them.
    • Maintain your level of enthusiasm and interest. If the employer walks away from the conversation not sure of your interest, you have just lost your chance at an interview.

    Avoid. Avoid. Avoid

    • Asking what the company does. ( Even if you are just at the fair to explore options, it only takes a minute to look up an employer before going to their table.)
    • Asking if the company has any jobs available.
    • Stating that you will be willing to do anything at the company.
    • Bringing up negatives about previous experience, employer, etc.

    Leave a Positive Impression

    • Be sure to end the conversation strongly.
    • Tell them you are very interested in working for their organization and/or the position they are offering, and let them know you would really appreciate the opportunity to interview for the position.
    • Ask for their business card so you can send them a thank you on LinkedIn/email and follow up as needed.
    • Offer another firm handshake and thank them for taking the time to talk with you.