he fall Job Fair will take place today from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Convocation Center. Last year, 123 employers attended the fair. This year, 148 employers are registered.

The spring fair is more popular, said Jean Callary, assistant director of the Career Planning and Placement Center.

However, the spring fair also is much more competitive because more people graduate in the spring. If you’re looking for a less-competitive job fair, the fall fair would be the one to attend, Callary said.

Job Fair tips from the Career Planning and Placement Center:

– Be prepared to describe your qualifications in about 45 seconds, including education, work experience and career interests. Be as specific as possible.

– Practice this summary so you feel comfortable and confident, but avoid sounding as if you have memorized a script. This summary will be most effective if you have read the employer’s job descriptions so you can relate your qualifications to the job.

– Don’t ask about salary or benefits unless the employer prompts it in the conversation. If so, offer realistic salary expectations.

– First impressions are critical. Conservative, well-pressed, tailored business attire is the best choice.

– Approach employers with confidence. Always remember that they are hoping you will be the star candidate they have been waiting for.

– Turn off your cell phone.

– Don’t travel in groups – employers want to talk to you, not you and your friends.

– Smile and offer a firm handshake. Chewing gum, eating and drinking are inappropriate.

– Bring plenty of copies of your resume.

– Take your calendar or date book to schedule interviews.

– Visit the employers in which you have the strongest interest in first, then the employers whose jobs looked like possibilities.

– Make notes between employer contacts; these will be helpful to you as you write thank-you letters, prepare for interviews or evaluate job offers.

– Before you leave each employer, ask about the next step in the process and how you can advance your candidacy.

– Ask for a business card from all recruiters with whom you speak; shake their hands and thank them for their time.

– Write a thank-you message (paper or e-mail) to each recruiter who had a job you were interested in.

– Remind them in the letter that you met at the NIU Job Fair, then restate your qualifications for and interest in the position.

– Include a copy of your resume and any documentation requested at the job fair.

Source: www.stuaff.niu.edu/cppc