But what about those women and gentlemen (yes there are some men that attend) who are there to meet with the companies and hope to leave positive and last impressions on the employer reps they meet? We all know that first impressions are lasting. We hope they are not, but we are all judged on how we present ourselves and as a result we need present ourselves for the job we want, not the job we have. If we were going to an individual company for an interview the outfit we choose would be easy, but a conference career fair is a different beast. The SWE Career Fair is huge and you are on your feet all day, from 9am-4pm, walking around and networking with tons of companies. In addition to the career fair, there are opportunities to attend professional and personal development sessions throughout the day.
So how does one look both professional and ready to sit down with a potential employer and perhaps even interview on site, while continuing to remain cool and comfortable on their feet all day, resumes ready at hand for the next company they want to meet with? It's a challenge. As a rep for my company the last three years, I can say that it is nice to see the students and professionals that look as fresh at 4pm as they did at 9am when they come to talk to you. You know when the individual you are talking to uncomfortable because their heels are killing them 7 hours into the day.
Here are my 11 tips for looking fresh throughout the day at an all day event like this:
1. Wear a suit that fits and is freshly ironed. It is the most professional look you can carry off. Make sure it is your size and tailored properly. If it is too tight or too bulky it immediately ages you. also a shell is a great alternative to a button down shirt. It keeps you cool as you walk around all day and helps give you some personality among all the suits with the same white or blue button down.
2. Wear heels. They improve your posture and give you a sense of power. Exception to this rule: if you don't wear heels normally, wear a cute pair of flats. Ballet flats are great here. Also a great opportunity to show some personality. A word of caution here though, make sure you can wear these shoes for 7+ hours and your face does not show any signs of discomfort. Recruiters will read it on your face.
3. Pack flats. It's a good backup, no matter how comfortable your heels are.
4. Print extra resumes & have a soft copy. You don't want to run out.
5. Take notes. We won't be offended. It shows us you are seriously interested in our business. We like that.
6. Bring a reusable shopping bag. Career Fairs are a great place for giveaways.
7. Have questions ready. Don't go to a company's booth and ask what do you do? Have at least one specific question prepared if you are actively interested in that company.
8. Pack lip gloss. Refresh throughout the day. It will keep you looking fresh all day and keep your mood up.
9. Pack water. Stay hydrated. You are going to be talking a lot.
10. Gum or mints. Same as 9. You are going to be talking a lot.
11. Food. EAT. Make sure you eat something (granola bar, lunch, something). Fainting at a Career Fair is not a good way to get remembered. I know its overwhelming and there are a lot of companies to meet, but trust me, you have time to eat.
Good luck out there today!
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