The fall Internship Fair will take place today and the Job Fair will take place next Wednesday, Oct. 11. Where should you start? Here are some tips to make your job or internship fair a productive experience.

First, learn who’s coming ahead of time. Visit the Career Services Web site for information on companies attending the fair, then develop a list of employers with whom you plan to speak. Research their employment opportunities, company products and services. Some companies schedule pre-fair information sessions. If you are interested in those positions, you should definitely attend those info sessions.

Second, plan to engage in brief interviews with employers regarding your qualifications and their employment needs. Review your resume and prepare a 45-second summary of your educational and career background, qualifications, work experience and career interests. Be prepared to ask relevant questions and describe how your skills match those positions of interest.

Finally, it is critical that you dress and act the part because first impressions are critical. Dress in conservative, well-pressed business attire. Approach employers with confidence and assertiveness. Make eye contact, smile and shake hands firmly. Don’t chew gum, drink or eat, and don’t ask about salary and benefits unless the employer prompts the conversation. Plan to arrive as close to 10 a.m. as possible; some recruiters may leave well before 3 p.m.

You’ll need to develop a plan of action for the day of the fair.

Place an ample supply of resumes, printed on white or off-white, 24 lb. paper, in a leather folder or attaché. Take your calendar or date book in order to schedule interviews. First, visit the employers in which you have the strongest interest — your “A-List.” Then visit those whose positions look interesting. Record notes in between each employer contact on the recruiter’s business card or company literature.

Learn what’s going to happen next. As you leave each employer, ask about the next step in the interview process and how you can advance your candidacy. If the employer suggests that you call or e-mail, do so within two days. Ask for a business card, shake their hand and thank them for their time.

Follow-up with your job leads. Mail or e-mail a thank-you note to each recruiter to whom you spoke with. In the note, remind the recruiter that you met at the NIU Job or Internship Fair, and reiterate your qualifications and interest in the position.

Not all companies conduct interviews and collect resumes. Such companies view the fair as an opportunity to educate job seekers about their company.