Pre-register: Secure your spot for the Career Expo! The event is free for Purdue Global students and military-affiliated students from all Purdue campuses. Register via this Zoom link.

Prepare:

• Update your resume and cover letter: Get a free review from your Career Specialist and tailor them for each position. Read more here: Resume Tips. Cover Letter Tips

• Create or update your federal resume: Click here to watch a webinar with tips for creating a federal resume and resources for transitioning military members.

• Set up your USAJobs profile: Watch this video and follow these step-by-step instructions.

• Update your LinkedIn profile: Check out this webinar and follow this LinkedIn checklist:

  • • Add key skills and request endorsements.

    • Seek recommendations.

    • Use a professional photo.

    • Craft a compelling headline and summary.

    • Highlight relevant experience, projects, and publications.

    • Join relevant groups and engage with content.

    • Customize your URL and update your contact information. LinkedIn Guide.

Practice your elevator pitch and introduction: a brief introduction that highlights your skills, education, and career goals. 

Network: Follow companies on LinkedIn, join relevant groups and professional organizations, and engage with industry content. Networking Tips.

Research Companies:

• Visit their website and review mission, products, and recent news.

• Study industry trends and competitors.

• Check their social media and company reputation on sites like Glassdoor.

• Review job openings and prepare thoughtful questions.

• Review key employees on LinkedIn for networking opportunities.

• Use this document for detailed research tips. 

Make a List of Interview Questions:

• Ask about ideal candidate qualities, company culture, professional development, and more.

• Click here for a detailed list of questions you can ask

Create a Plan of Action: Prioritize the employer rooms you’re most interested in. Take notes to ask tailored questions and make the most of your interactions.

• Dress for success: Wear professional attire as you would for an in-office interview. When in doubt, opt for slightly overdressed rather than too casual. Learn more.

• Ensure a stable internet connection: Test Zoom, verify your internet is secure, and check your webcam and microphone. Keep your laptop plugged in or ensure your cell phone is fully charged.

• Choose a quiet, professional location: Set up against a blank wall or in a tidy, professional space. Ensure your environment is free of background noise and personal items. Alternatively, create a professional Zoom background to enhance your virtual presence.

• Come prepared: Use your notes to ask informed questions, take additional notes, and collect contact information for follow-up. Learn more

• During meetings: Demonstrate your research about the company and discuss how your skills align with their needs.

• Listen and engage: Pay attention to others’ questions and answers, wait your turn to speak, and ask relevant follow-up questions.

• Watch your body language: Sit up straight, smile, and look at the webcam to simulate eye contact. Maintain high energy and enthusiasm.

• Be confident: Prepare thoroughly and ask for a moment to gather your thoughts if needed, showcasing your ability to stay calm under pressure.

• Collect contact information: Make sure to get contact details from recruiters or company representatives to follow up after the event.

Additional Tip: Test your technology: Do a trial run with all your equipment and software to ensure everything works smoothly on the day of the expo.

Follow Employers on LinkedIn:

• • • Connect with the company’s representative and follow them on LinkedIn to stay updated on new job postings and company events.

    • Send a short thank-you email expressing your interest in the company and your appreciation for their time. You may also call and leave a voicemail thanking them for their time during the job fair.

    • Following the company increases your visibility and shows continued interest.

Apply to Open Jobs or Internships:

• • • If you discussed a specific opportunity with the employer, be prepared to submit your application.

    • For roles you didn’t discuss, check the CareerNetwork or the company’s career page for current openings. Save job listings you're interested in to ensure you apply before the deadline.

Send a Thank-You Email:

• • • Within 24 hours of the event, send a follow-up email if you have the employer's contact information.

    • Start by thanking them for their time and mention that you enjoyed meeting them.

    • Reference something specific from your conversation and mention any next steps you’re taking, such as applying for a job.