University of Wisconsin - Stout

How to Make the Most of the Career Conference

The conference consists of employer representatives, many of whom are Stout alumni. Employer displays vary from a simple table of brochures and business cards with one representative, to an elaborate multimedia extravaganza with interactive displays, videos, posters and a team of recruiters and representatives.


Why do students attend this conference?
  • To network with employers to discuss career plans/clarify career goals.
  • To explore employment opportunities for co-op/internships, summer jobs and full time openings for Seniors.
Who should attend? Is this for me?
The Career Conference is not just for juniors, seniors, or alumni. Freshman can use this event as a career exploration activity and sophomores are encouraged to start the networking process early to become aware of co-op/internship opportunities and expectations. Stout students and guests “from all grade levels” are encouraged to attend this free event.
What should I do before the Career Conference

1.       Create or update your Stout CareerLink profile and resume

 

2.       If you do not have a Stout CareerLink account:

  • Go to “Stout CareerLink” on the left side of this page.
  • Click the blue “Students” button.
  • Enter your username (your complete email address) and your password (your Stout Student ID number). Password can be changed once you have logged into your account.
  • Complete the short profile by going to “My Account” in menu bar and then to “My Profile.”
  • Upload your resume by going to “My Account” in the menu bar and then to “My Documents.”

    • Note: A resume is required to access all services in Stout CareerLink.
3.       Identify the day highlighting your major by selecting
          "Majors By Day of Conference” in this site
 

4.       Identify the employers looking for your major:

  • After identifying the day of your major log into your Stout CareerLink account on the left side of this web page and then select the “Career Events” tab.
  • Click on Career Fair, search, and then the day for your major.
  • Click on “View Employers Attending” and then select your major by adding/removing.

 

5.       Research employers you would like to meet:

  • Review employer profile and website for information on openings and the qualifications they are looking for in applicants.  At a minimum you should know something about the employer’s history, size, location and products/services.

 

6.       Sign up for on-campus interviews

  • Log into your Stout CareerLink account on the left side of this web page
  • Select “On-Campus Interviews”
  • Select “Schedules Matching Your Qualifications”
  • Click on the employer name to sign up for an interview - some employers prefer to have you visit the conference to set up an interview. This will be listed under the “Application Instructions” for the job posting.

 

 

What should I say and what questions should I ask?

Introduce yourself:

  • Create a 30 second "commercial" as a way to sell yourself to an employer. Find and View the "The Elevator Pitch" video at this LINK to get some ideas.
  • Express enthusiasm and interest.
  • Demonstrate your knowledge of the company.
  • Relate how the skills and qualities you have demonstrated or developed through your education, work, and extracurricular activities, fit with the employer’s needs.

Ask questions relating to your goal

  • If you are interested in finding out about a particular career field, ask generalized questions about working within the industry.
  • If you are seeking a co-op opportunity or a professional position upon graduation with a specific employer, focus your questions on the application and interview process, and ask for specific information about that employer. See "Sample Questions at a Career Conference" on the front page of this section.
What should I wear? How should I portray myself?
  • If you can help it, don't bring your backpack; it’s cumbersome for you, gets in the way of others, and shouts "student!" instead of "candidate!"
  • The appropriate attire for the Career Conference is professional see Guidelines for Successful Interview Dress. You'll make a better impression if you appear more like a professional, less like a student. Think of it as a dress rehearsal for your real interviews!
  • Remember to bring copies of your resume, a writing pad, and pen or pencil. Keep track of the recruiters with whom you speak so you can send follow-up notes to the ones who interest you.
Tips for during the Career Conference

Stop, Look and listen

Tip #1: Be an active participant in order to maximize your career fair experience, not just a browser. If all you do is stroll around, take company literature and load up on freebies, you really haven't accomplished anything (unless you're a collector of key chains, mouse pads and pocket flashlights).

Tip #2: Keep your eyes and ears open: What are others asking? What answers are they receiving? There is nothing wrong with subtle eavesdropping. You might even pick up valuable information, in addition to witnessing some real-life career search "do’s and don'ts."

Tip #3: Don't interrupt the employer reps or your fellow job seekers. If someone else is monopolizing the employer's time, try to make eye contact with the rep to let him or her know that you're interested in speaking to them. The recruiter may even appreciate your giving them “an out”, e.g.: “Excuse me, but I see someone else has a question." If all else fails, move to the next booth and make a note to come back later.

Tip # 4: Don't just drop your resume on employer display tables. Try to get it into the recruiter's hand and at least say a few words. If they are too busy, put a note on your resume to the effect of, "You were so busy that we didn't get a chance to meet. I'm very interested in talking to you." Look around the display for the recruiter's business card (or at the very least write down his or her name and get some literature with the company's address) and send a follow-up note and another copy of your resume.

Tip # 5: If you discover a real interest, find out the procedure to secure an interview. Show enthusiasm! While some initial screening interviews may be done on the spot, most often, the Career Conference is used to pre-screen applicants for interviews to be conducted later (either on campus or at the employer's site).

After the Career Conference

Follow up with possible employers

Compose and send follow-up or "thank you" letters immediately (within 2 days if possible). Refer to date and location of conference, mention any unusual or specific points discussed so the employer will remember you. Any important information should be restated. Reiterate your qualifications and include any information you neglected to mention. Proofread your letter and let someone else look it over. Your may want to include a copy of your resume.

Evaluate yourself

  • How well did you communicate?
  • How well did you answer questions?
  • Did you need to do more research?
  • Did you accomplish what you wanted to?
  • If not, why not?
  • What could you have done differently to improve your results?
» Back to Student's Career Conference Page
 
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