Don't talk so FAST!
Headed to the [Cincinnati job fair] (https://www.jobcase.com/cw-job-fair) or a different one?
Keep these things in mind!
As you approach the employer’s table make sure you are friendly, confident, and most importantly prepared with something to say. Be different and stand out! Don’t fall back on chatting about the weather because 100 other people will likely be doing the same exact thing. Instead, research the companies you are going to chat with beforehand and lead with something to catch their attention.
“Hello! My name is….I am really impressed that your company…”
As you speak SMILE, make good eye contact, and offer a brief, firm [handshake] (https://www.jobcase.com/conversations/522f52e3-d800-59dd-bc7e-26eaa14be6d1).
Many times the employer will take the lead by asking you a few questions, so have your [elevator pitch ready] (https://www.jobcase.com/conversations/7af45c96-9dbb-555e-8bf0-eed09382fc67?from=https%253A%252F%252Fwww.jobcase.com%252Fcommunity). This is a 30-second synopsis of what you'd like the company to know about you, and how it pertains to them. Practice your pitch so you're comfortable and confident speaking about yourself. It does take practice!
Make sure not to go too fast when you speak. Job seekers have a tendency to speak quickly as there is a lot to say in a short period of time, but this can comes across as rushed or implies you’re nervous when in fact you are not.
Speak slowly, listen, and engage your audience.
So, what’s YOUR game plan to get hired at your next job fair?
Thanks.
If you talk too fast you will end up sounding nuts!
Yes, remembering to take breaths and pause is important. It also helps you regain your composure if you forget an answer to a question. When in doubt take a breath count to three and answer. As Ashley Wilson said smiling is important too. Even if you're nervous make a good impression! You only get one.
I'm going to be THRILLED to be there! Also, a great technique is to casually ask questions that lead or pertain to the "perfect" candidate listed online in the job Instructions or embedded within the companie's mission statement. I just re-read what I wrote and it sounds like I'm plagiarizing our presenter for this forum. Allow me to correct: Ashley, absolutely fantastic advice on research. Once that is, if you will, "downloaded" another great way to showcase that knowledge is by asking questions in a casual way.
Allow me to end with this: Showrunners and Marketing Managers are trained to control the conversation and make a determination as to whether or not we will be a good fit for the culture of the company first and foremost (they figure they can train away any job performance issues) and then secondarily with resume statements vs casual question and answer segways in order to get a feel for the validity between resume statements and question responses. Relaxing, finding a way to laugh and--even better--get them laughing are a couple of ways to stay even-keeled.