Career Conference, Thursday, September 27

The 55th Annual Career Conference provides an opportunity for all university students and alumni to network with attending organizations to discuss career plans including internships and full-time opportunities.

Approximately 100 employers will attend this event including local, regional and national companies; state and federal agencies; and graduate schools. The conference is sponsored by Beta Upsilon Sigma, in association with UW-Eau Claire Career Services.

Students - Prepare for the Conference

Research Employers Attending

• View the list of organizations that have registered.
• What kind of positions does this organization have?
• Check Blugold CareerLink to identify the positions for which they will be recruiting
• Research their web sites to understand the types of departments and types of positions.
• Where are the positions?

Research Self

• What do you want to do?
• What kind organization do you want to work for?
• Where do you want to live?

Identify a list of potential employers

• List reasons you would like to work for them
• Prioritize these employers

Contact the employers before the conference

• Send a customized cover letter and resume to the recruiter

  • Introduce yourself
  • Tell them why you like their organization
  • Tell them why you are a good fit
  • Tell them you will be at the Conference

Prepare a mini presentation about self (sales pitch)

• Introduce yourself
• Explain why you are interested in their organization
• Explain why you would be a good fit (talk about skills, experience, etc.)
• Develop questions to ask (questions which demonstrate your knowledge of the organization)

Decide on a wardrobe - business professional attire is recommended.

Present yourself to the recruiter (Shake hands and make eye contact)

• Give them your best sales pitch
• Present your resume (with a customized career objective)
• Ask Questions
• Listen
• Ask if you can follow-up
• Ask for their card
• NOTE: If the recruiter is interviewing for a specific position, get on their interview schedule
• If the recruiter is not interviewing for your specific position - ask for their help (a contact name; how to approach, next steps, policies).

Find a quiet spot to make notes

Write thank you letters and/or emails

Follow-up