Top Tips: Working the Part-time Job Fair

Are you in need of a part-time job this year? Plan on attending the annual Part-time Job Fair sponsored by Career Development Services on Wednesday August 25, 2010 in the AU Student Center Ballroom between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Are you wondering how you can stand out in the job search crowd? Consider these top tips:

1. Dress for Success: Business casual dress is required for the Part-time Job Fair so what does that mean for you? Ladies should choose something conservative and understated such as a black skirt and solid color blouse or slacks and a modest top. Avoid anything low cut, too short, too tight, or sloppy that will appear negatively to employers. Gentlemen can stick with a good pair of khakis and either a polo style or button down shirt in a subdued color scheme and pattern. Remember to iron out any wrinkles and tuck your shirt in for added polish. Match your belt color with your shoes also to continue a professional and put together look. T-shirts and athletic shorts do not scream, “Hire me! I’m mature and professional and will represent your company well.”

2. Resume and Schedule: Bring several copies of your resume (think 12-15) with you along with a copy of your schedule showing employers your hours of availability. Have your resume reviewed by someone in Career Services (eresume@auburn.edu; walk-in M-F, noon-4 in 303 Mary Martin or M-Thurs 9-11, in Student Center) to ensure that you have highlighted your skills effectively and that there are no errors. To maintain a polished and consistent package, type and print your schedule using the same heading/contact info that is on your resume.

3. Your Pitch: To really stand out with employers, prepare a brief pitch for employers telling them who you are, what you can do, and how you want to do it. They will be WOW-ed by your confidence and self-awareness and will remember you over other students who are less prepared. Ex: Hi, my name is Meaghan Weir, and I am a hotel and restaurant management major who wants to strengthen my interpersonal and customer service skills by working as a banquet server at your hotel.

To see a list of employers attending the Fall 2010 Part-time Job Fair, log-in to your Tiger Recruiting Link account (or create one if you do not have an account) at jobs.auburn.edu and look for “Fall 10-Part-time Job Fair” in the Events tabs.

What to Expect: When you arrive at the 3rd floor entry to the ballroom, you will check in using your AU student ID and will receive a list of the employers attending. Once you walk inside the ballroom, you will see the employers set up at tables around the room. Walk around the room visiting employers you are interested in working for, introducing yourself with your prepared pitch. Keep an open mind about employers you may not know much about as they may have excellent and flexible opportunities for student employees.