It’s almost time to Meet the Firms! Next week, dozens of employers from many different industries will visit campus to share information about their companies and recruit Pacific students for internships and entry-level jobs.
Here’s just a short list of some of the employers participating. You can find more employers who will be at Meet the Firms on Handshake.
- Bloomberg
- E & J Gallo Winery
- Moss Adams
- Sacramento/Stockton Kings
- Blackwing
- Target
- Enterprise
- Atherton & Associates
Employer representatives will include Pacific alumni, company recruiters and hiring managers. It’s a fantastic opportunity to network and find new opportunities that you won’t want to miss. So, mark your calendar for noon, Tuesday, September 26 at the DUC—all students are welcome to participate!
But how should you prepare for the big day? The Eberhardt School of Business shares top tips you need to know, from what to wear to how to follow up, to make a great first impression with your dream company.
1. Dress to impress
First impressions are lasting. If you are actively applying to internships or entry-level jobs, professional dress is your best choice to stand out. Business casual is acceptable if your purpose for attending is to begin getting acquainted with employers, but you are not ready to start interviewing this semester.
If you don’t have professional clothes to wear, Pacific’s Career Services has a lending closet full of career attire that you can borrow for free! Just come in, take something and bring it back when you’re done—Career Services will take care of dry cleaning.
2. Bring a resume (or 15!)
If you are looking to land interviews this fall, bring resumes! Lots of resumes! Ten to 15 copies at minimum are advised. The Eberhardt Career Management Center provides a recommended resume format for business students.
Bring along a padfolio or nice notebook to keep your resumes tucked in. It’s also a good idea to take some notes and stash any business cards or information you collect from employer booths.
3. Perfect your introduction
Approach with a genuine smile and offer a firm handshake or gentle fist bump. Your intro should include your name, major, graduation year and what you are looking for (internship or post-college job).
4. Research employers ahead of time
When you’re speaking to an employer, if you can share something you’ve learned about their company because of the research you’ve done before attending the fair, that will impress them. They will see that you came here ready to have a meaningful interaction. Tell them what stood out about their business and inspired you to visit their booth.
5. Practice, practice, practice
Though it seems a little awkward and uncomfortable to talk to yourself in the mirror, that’s a good start. You can also find a peer who is also planning to go to the fair and practice your introductions with each other.
6. Follow up ASAP
If there is an immediate opening/opportunity to secure an interview, the best follow up is to get your application submitted as soon as possible. Don’t wait for the last minute to submit by the deadline. Show them you are serious and apply NOW.
If you’re not ready to apply for positions yet but want to stay in touch with a company for the future, send an email to thank the recruiter or other employer representative for their time at the fair. This will make a positive impression. If you met and connected with a Pacific alum at the fair, a request to connect on LinkedIn is another option for follow up.
Ready to make invaluable connections? Don’t miss Meet the Firms from noon to 3 p.m., Tuesday, September 26 in the DeRosa University Center. For more information and to register, visit the event page on Handshake.