SIU Carbondale College of Business Career Guide

CAREER FAIRS seeking. When appropriate, be sure to ask one or more of the questions that you prepared. Prepare for follow-up Thank the employer for his/her time, and be sure to leave a copy of your resume. Ask the employer for a business card or company literature for the follow-up protocol. If the employer says they do not have a position in your field, ask for the address of the Human Resources Department so you can write a letter and send your resume. Nearly all employers hire all majors. The person you are speaking with may not be aware of all opportunities offered by the company. As soon as you walk away from the employer, jot down a few notes about your conversation so you will have a few memorable points to

mention in your follow-up letter. After the Career Fair Follow up! Send thank you letters to employers you met within a week of the fair. This shows the employer that you have a genuine interest in their organization and position and may give you a competitive edge over those candidates that do not follow up. Review the “Cover Letters” section of this Career Guide for tips on constructing powerful thank you letters. Be persistent If you have observed the follow- up protocols as outlined by the employer, it is appropriate to send a letter inquiring about the status of your application after a reasonable amount of time has passed.

During the Career Fair Using your time wisely

Survey the room to determine where employers are located and in what order you plan to visit them. If there is a long line to speak with one of your “chosen” companies, keep moving and return later. Your goal should be to make contact with as many employers as possible. Be confident Project enthusiasm, confidence, and sincerity. Smile, walk confidently with good posture and make consistent, direct eye contact. Introduce yourself When it is your turn to speak with an employer, greet him/her with a firm handshake, a copy of your resume and a brief summary of why you are attending the career fair and/or the type of career you are

EVALUATING JOB OFFERS Listed below are factors you will want to consider when determining whether or not you will accept a position. While salary is an important factor, be sure you weigh your starting salary against the salary potential of the position and the cost of living of the geographic area where you plan to live. Also, consider these factors:

Geographic/Life-Style Factors ƒ ƒ Geographic location ƒ ƒ Climate ƒ ƒ Social life for singles, couples or family ƒ ƒ Commute to work

Job/Employer Related Factors ƒ ƒ Potential for career advancement ƒ ƒ Work schedule (traditional “9:00-5:00” or flexible hours) ƒ ƒ Work environment/attire (formal vs. informal) ƒ ƒ Bonus or commission plans ƒ ƒ Benefits such as profit sharing, 401K plan, insurance, etc. ƒ ƒ Travel ƒ ƒ Reputation and stability of employer ƒ ƒ Ability to gain a mentor ƒ ƒ Type of industry

ƒ ƒ Availability of suitable housing ƒ ƒ Size and type of community (suburban, Metropolitan, rural)

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