As prospective May 2007 graduates begin their final semester at The University, the daunting task of finding a job looms large.
Attending job fairs is an easy way for students to meet potential employers and get a sense of the current job market.
Preparing to attend a job fair is as important as preparing for a job interview.
"Sometimes they will conduct preliminary interviews on the spot," said Alisha Rose, director of career and employment services at The University.
Rose said each student should take several copies of a current resumé that has been critiqued by someone else, preferably by a professor or by the career and employment office.
Second, students should dress accordingly.
Applicants may be interviewed for positions in which they may be role models, such as education.
"When you interview, it's best to be conservative," Rose said.
Women should wear dark suits or skirts slightly above the knee and should not wear low cut blouses, open toe or open heel shoes, perfume, excessive makeup or jewelry, she said.
Men should wear a dark suit, crisp shirt, tie and polished shoes. Rose said, if finances don't permit a suit, then wear pressed slacks, shirt and tie. Men should not wear earrings or cologne.
She said hair and nails should be neat and clean, and women should not wear garish nail polish.
Rose said men should wear their hair above the collar, but if that is not an option, keep long hair neat.
"You're projecting the best professional image you can," Rose said.
Once you get the job you can dress according to the work environment, but keep it neat and conservative during the interview process, she said.
Third on Rose's list, display professional mannerisms. Use a firm, not hard, handshake and make eye contact.
Rose said if time allows, research employers that will be at the fair. This will allow you to speak knowledgeably about their company.
"You're showing them you're very interested in becoming part of their team," Rose said.
Finally, Rose said to follow up with employers you've spoken with at the job fair. Employers see a lot of applicants at job fairs and you want to stand out, Rose said. Get the employer's card and send a note, including another resumé, thanking them for their time.
For more information contact Career and Employment Services at 678-2239 or visit their website at www.saweb.memphis.edu/ces/.
