Recruiter Tips to Prep for the Career Fair!

Seventeen employers and recruiters attended Résumé+ at Career Services on Tuesday, January 15^th to give students valuable résumé feedback. This event occurs quarterly the week before each career fair and it’s the perfect opportunity to make sure résumés are ready for the big recruiting event! We sat down with the employers before they began critiquing résumés so we could gather professional advice from industry leaders.

What catches your eye at a recruiting event?

“An engaging smile and approachable disposition. Students need to express that they are able and willing to work, and provide a résumé that is tailored. Communication skills are very important!” –Tyco representative

“Too many students approach recruiters and ask, ‘So, what does your company do?’ The applicant should show their knowledge and interest in the company by doing research.” –Kollmorgen representative

“It stands out when a student has an elevator pitch or strong introduction about what they are looking for so an employer can tailor their response. About one-third of students are well prepared at recruiting events.” –Enterprise Holdings representative

“Applicants approaching recruiters at an event need to be personable and able to talk about their internship experience and why it is relevant.” –Yardi representative 

Do you have expectations about professional attire at a Career Fair?

“Wearing a suit or professional attire indicates you are willing to assume the part and make the commitment. Professional attire and appearance also makes an applicant look more approachable.” –Chase Bank representative

“Although the field of engineering is a little bit different in the office we still look for professional attire at recruiting events such as a jacket and button-up shirt.” –Raytheon representative

“Dress professionally and appropriate to impress recruiters. Remember, you’re not going out to a club.” Kollmorgen representative

“It’s important to dress professionally but equally important to make sure you feel comfortable being yourself and expressing fit for the position.” College Works Painting representative  

What are some “deal breakers” when reviewing a résumé?

“Funky fonts, irrelevant graphics, and being unorganized.” –Yardi representative  

“An ambiguous objective statement.” –Kollmorgen representative

Thanks to our local recruiters for sharing such great advice! These tips will help students prepare for the career fair this upcoming Tuesday. Get ready for the Winter 2013 Career Fair and check out the list of participating companies who will be here on Tuesday, January 22^nd 1-4pm at Corwin Pavilion!