How to make the most of the Career Fair

Getting that first actuarial job! Some say is harder than taking an SOA exam. The way you present yourself is one of the determining factors. Being smart is not enough! You oftentimes have to sell yourself. Great opportunity presents attending a Career Fair.

It all starts much, much sooner than the actual day of the Fair. You have to prepare!

Research the companies! Usually a list of companies attending exists. Go through the list and pick the companies you are interested in and eligible to apply for. Visit the company website and find out if you would like to work there. This is your power stage. You are the one deciding here. Make smart decisions! Once the list of companies you are interested in is ready, go deeper. Browse the "careers" part of the company website and find out what are they looking for. Read the job postings and notice what qualities and skills they value the most in a candidate. Sometimes you can even read about the interview tips—they advise you on how to present yourself. Take the advice!

Now you need to review and update your resume. Do not only write your resume, you have to craft it! The "artistic" layout may decide which paper goes in trash, and which goes for further review. Relate your experiences to the skills wanted!

Next you need to prepare your "30–sec" introduction. People are by nature emotional creatures, and first impression is crucial. What are you going say while you shaking your hands with the potential employer? Are you just going to smile? Not enough! Practice your 30 second introductory speech. Keep it simple. Something like your name, the program you are in, and the position you are seeking.

The day of the Fair comes. You are prepared. You know which companies you want to apply to, and you know what they are looking for. You have your pleasure–to–look–at, well–written resume printed on a good quality paper. There is a trick that might help you relieve the stress and practice your 30–sec. Go to booth of the company you are not so interested in first. Practice your introduction, ask couple of questions, have fun until you feel ready to go for real action!

Shake hands, smile, and pull out your 30–sec. If they let you talk longer, mention your experiences and interests as they relate to this company. Capitalize on your research! Time to shine! The quality of your questions shows your interest and understanding of your possible role in the company. Take business cards!

After the Fair, look at the materials you have gotten, and write a "thank you" email to the employers who you interested in. Follow–up as directed by the recruiter. Good Luck!