Hiring outlook positive as career and internship fair hits campus


The flier for this week's Job and Internship Fair sponsored by University Career Services. (University Career Services) 

Helpful Tips from University Career Services

1. Have a game plan.
Find out who’s attending the fair and research the company. Are they a fit for your career goals?

2. Talk about yourself…but not too much.
Discuss your educational background and related strengths. Advocate that you’re a fit for them.

3. Strut your stuff.
Give an example of an accomplishment that illustrates your relevant skills and experience.

4. Be interested in them.
Ask the employer for information. What skills and characteristics are they seeking in an employee?

5. Make it happen – score a date!
Express your interest in interviewing. Set a date and time to follow up on your conversation via email or phone.


For videos and more preparation tips, visit careers.gmu.edu/jobfair.

New statistics show better hiring prospects for 2011 college graduates just as University Career Services plans to host a job and internship fair this week.

The statistics released last month by the National Association of Colleges and Employers, show that employers expect to hire 13.5 percent more new graduates from the class of 2011 than they hired from the class of 2010.

“The best way to interpret the NACE data is that the employers surveyed are more likely to hire a greater number of positions than they did last year,” University Career Services staff wrote in an e-mail.

Career Services staff echoed the statistics further by saying they have seen an increase in the number of positions available in the HireMason program. The program provides career and job opportunities for members of the Mason community.

University Career Services will host a Job and Internship Fair this Wednesday and Thursday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. in Dewberry Hall. They expect 177 employers to be represented and they said many will be accepting resumes.

The most important thing for students planning to attend the fair is to be prepared, according to Career Services.

“One employer who attended a previous fair stated that students who do not research prior to the event make ‘a poor first impression and are not readily able to tie their career goals with our company,’” Career Services wrote.

Additionally, Career Services staff said students should be dressed professionally, have a practiced personal introduction to potential employers, and have a strong resume. The staff recommends having a resume critiqued through one of the Career Services programs prior to the fair.

It’s also important for students to communicate with potential employers how they will contribute to the company if hired, Career Services said.

Additional information and helpful tips on landing a job or internship are available through University Career Services by visiting their website at careers.gmu.edu.

Your rating: None Average: 5 (2 votes)
Student Media Group: