CAREER FAIRS: A RECRUITER’S SIDE OF THE STORY

As a fairly recent Barnard graduate, I’ve been on both sides of the career fair table—as a soon-to-be graduating senior looking for that great first job, and, most recently, as a representative of Seedco—a nonprofit organization serving community-based organizations and small businesses to promote economic mobility—where I now work as a Human Resources Program Assistant. Generally speaking, employers send representatives to career fairs to meet and recruit graduating seniors for entry-level jobs that are open within the organization, such as program assistant positions (sound familiar?). Third-year students and below should attend career fairs as well; many organizations welcome the prospect of summer interns. Students interested in interning should exchange information with the representative and keep in touch with him/her via short and polite emails, especially as summer approaches.

Representatives inevitably have a limited amount of time to meet with fair-goers; thus, first impressions do count. Students and alumnae who are dressed in neat, professional attire, bring a copy of their resume, and speak to representatives about their career goals in a personable and courteous manner make a great first impression because it speaks to the student’s preparedness and how she might fit in with the organization’s culture.

On the other side of the coin are students who dress casually, monopolize a representative’s time by asking too many questions—most of which can be answered by the organization’s website—or come off as overly eager (read: aggressive) or arrogant. If a student has experiences or accomplishments that she wants to share with the representative, she can subtly point those out in her resume. That being said, the Barnard students with whom I usually speak are smart and witty go-getters. In sum, treating the meeting with a representative as an informal interview is always a good idea because a representative’s recommendation can go a long way in helping a student land an interview, and, if all goes well, a job.

I am continually impressed when the student has done some research about Seedco and can speak to how the organization’s mission aligns with her own professional goals and aspirations. In addition, organizations commonly advertise job openings on their website; if a student finds herself suitable for a particular job opening, she should definitely let the representative know.

Good luck, and have fun attending all the upcoming career fairs!

By: Janet Li ‘08, HR Program Assistant at Seedco

Career Connections

March 1, 2010

Barnard Career DevelopmentElliott Hall, 2nd Floorwww.barnard.edu/cd

STAFF

Robert Earl, Jr.Director

Alexandra Nestoras Senior Associate Director

Won Kang Associate Director

Nadine Verna Associate Director

Will Simpkins Program Director / Community & Diversity Initiatives

Rachel TannenbaumCareer Counselor

Christine ShinAlumnae Counselor

Katherine Hendry Assistant Director

Halle Kiefer Career Resources Assistant

Hiraida Crespo Office Assistant

Genise Reid Student Employment Assistant

Bruce RossAdministrative Assistant

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Career Connections

March 1, 2010

Barnard Career DevelopmentElliott Hall, 2nd Floorwww.barnard.edu/cd

LIBRARY RESOURCE SPOTLIGHT:

SELL YOURSELF IN ANY INTERVIEW: Use Proven Sales Techniques to Land Your Dream JobBY: OSCAR ADLER

Readers will learn how to translate their personal features into direct benefits that meet the specific needs of the interviewer using this results-oriented workbook that teaches the strategies employed by successful salespeople. Ch. 4, “Asking Questions with Skill and Finesse”, is especially helpful, with tips that will make a lasting impression on interviewers at career fairs.

Available in the Career Development Library!

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TEN TIPS FOR NAVIGATING A CAREER FAIR

1. Approach the career fair like an interview. Career fairs put more emphasis on quick interaction with multiple employers. Plan in advance and manage your time effectively.

2. Target employers in advance. Most career centers will have a list of organizations scheduled to participate in the fair. Get a copy, then identify and research organizations that interest you.

3. Prepare a script. The biggest challenge is conveying to the recruiter - in a short amount of time - how you might be a possible match for the organization. Ready yourself by preparing two or three sentences to introduce yourself. Include your name, year in school, major, skills, qualifications, and area of interest.

4. Identify your interests. For each organization that you plan to target, have some sense of the type of opportunity in which you’re interested. You don’t need to know the exact position, but you should be able to speak generally about the type of work you’d like to do.

5. Dress the part. Be prepared to look like a professional. The career fair is not an interview, but you should dress as if it were. Try a good business suit, blouse, and “dress shoes.” Observe proper grooming - clean, neat, pressed.

6. Maximize your time. Arrive early. Focus first on those organizations that you’ve identified as of most interest to you and work through your list. Don’t monopolize the recruiter’s time; by using your prepared script, you’ll give the recruiter your most critical information and demonstrate professionalism.

7. Have a good attitude. Be positive and enthusiastic. Make eye contact with the recruiter. The recruiter should also have a chance to speak and provide information. Convey how your own interests and qualifications match those of the organization in a natural way.

8. Ask questions. Ask the recruiter about next steps: How should you follow up? What are the next steps in the hiring process? Should you apply online? Show that you have taken time to learn about the company or demonstrate your interest.

9. Get a business card. Be sure to get the recruiter’s business card. A good tip is to jot down notes on the back of the card about the recruiter and company. You can use this information when writing your thank-you notes.

10. Follow up. Write a thank-you note to every employer you spoke to at the career fair. In your note you want to: express your appreciation for the time and advice offered, let the recruiter know additional steps you’ve taken, and reiterate your interest in the organization and its opportunities.

Source: NACE Job Choices: Diversity Edition 2010

A WORD FROM OUR PCA – Jenny LyubomudrovaThe Job Search Process is a Job

The search for a great job or internship is a multi-step process; the research, the applications, the cover letters, resumes, job interviews take up hours if not days of time. While every once in a while a rare opportunity -- a great match -- comes your way, most of the time finding a job is, actually, a full time job. Although many of us work great under the pressure of an approaching deadline, a job or internship search is most effective when it begins several months before you need to work. For summer internships, for example, many deadlines come in March, so the search should begin early in the semester. Other internship deadlines can come as early as January. For seniors, the job search process is full of pressure and competition, and can take multiple months if not the entire academic year. It’s important to take advantage of Career Development’s resources no matter where you are in the process. Both part- and full-time counselors, numerous workshops, and the alumni database hold great benefits for those who are willing to invest time and energy in securing that dream job. 

WANT TO BECOME A PEER CAREER ADVISOR?Career Development is looking for exceptional rising sophomores, juniors, and seniors for the Academic Year 10-11 to contribute to and enhance our programs and services. The PCA staff not only serves as a bridge between Career Development and students, offices, and departments, they are trained to assist fellow students with career exploration, resume and cover letter writing, interviewing, and job search strategies.DEADLINE: 3/7INFORMATION: eRecruiting

PEER CAREER ADVISOR E-MAIL

Now you can contact a Peer Career Advisor (PCA) with quick questions about writing your resume and cover letter, job searching, interviewing, and other career-related concerns from your own home! Just email pca@barnard.edu and the PCA on duty will respond. This service is only available during PCA drop-in hours, 10 AM – 4 PM daily; if you email after those hours, you will be contacted by the next PCA on duty.

March 1, 2010

Barnard Career DevelopmentElliott Hall, 2nd Floorwww.barnard.edu/cd

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INTERNSHIP SPOTLIGHT:

KAPLAN PUBLISHINGBy Annette LaRocco ‘10

Last spring while in Cape Town, South Africa I was in a panic about trying to secure an internship upon returning to the US. I had limited internet access so I relied on the Barnard eRecruiting website. I knew I’d be able to find a wide variety of internship postings without having to do an extensive search. Being in a foreign country made securing an internship difficult but after several email exchanges, skype chats, and phone interviews I landed a summer internship at Kaplan Publishing. Working in the International Rights department I spent much of my time organizing foreign contracts, reaching out to new agents, and helping to organize Kaplan’s exhibition at the Frankfurt International Book Fair. Probably the best thing about my internship (other than the endless supply of free GRE books) was the fact that my unpaid position has morphed into a paid, part-time job. I am currently a freelance researcher working on occasional research projects.

FEATURED INTERNSHIPS

For these and other great opportunities, check out eRecruiting at www.barnard.edu/cd.

SPRING

Wet Productions – Web/Graphic Intern. Excellent design and communication skills needed by this celebrated non-profit that empowers women and girls by producing media that challenges stereotypes and advocates for equality. A part-time position with stipend, offering an excellent opportunity to make media and non-profit contacts.

Speaker Christine Quinn's Office – Community Outreach Interns. Work with the Speaker’s staff on a variety of tasks and projects at all levels to improve City Council services throughout the city. Applicants need enthusiasm, dedication, and a strong interest in government, policy, and community organizing.

CNA International – Underwriting Intern. Seeking a Barnard student to work part-time learning about the insurance industry and the various skills required to become an underwriter. This paid position is an opportunity to learn about doing business in foreign countries. Requires no previous business experience, just an eagerness to learn.

Ear Goo, Inc. – Audio Post-Production Intern. A professional, energetic intern with an interest in music and audio post-production is needed at this full service original music, sound design, and audio post-production company.

The Crohn's & Colitis Foundation of America – Patient and Professional Services Intern. Work in the national office providing resources and education to people with Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, and increasing public awareness of these diseases.

SUMMER

Chicken & Egg Pictures – General Operations Intern. Hands-on experience helping manage, build, and push forward this exciting non-profit organization founded by a Barnard alumna and dedicated to supporting women filmmakers.

The Sikh Coalition – Operations & Technology Intern. Support innovative technological initiatives, develop operational processes and work with management to develop policies. Requires a passion for the empowerment of unrepresented communities and excellent communication and technology skills. Stipend available.

McCormick & Williams Literary Agency – Operations & Technology Intern. Candidates with a genuine and demonstrated interest in book publishing will critique manuscripts and proposals, and assist agents with office duties. This is a challenging and rewarding opportunity in a small office environment.

March of Dimes – National Office Interns. A Barnard alumna is actively recruiting Barnard students for a broad range of internships at this premier non-profit. Internships include marketing, advocacy, medical data, and development, among others.

March 1, 2010

Barnard Career DevelopmentElliott Hall, 2nd Floorwww.barnard.edu/cd

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LOOKING FOR AN INTERNSHIP?

In addition to eRecruiting, you have access to Internships.com and Internships-USA.com, two online resources with hundreds of different internships organized by industry and state. To access both databases, log into eRecruiting, and use the school passwords provided on the lower left hand side of the home page.

INFORMATION: eRecruiting

BARNARD EXPERIENCE FOR SENIORS IN TRANSITION (BEST)

BEST ORIENTATIONCareer Development Seminar Room3/3/10, 3:30 PM3/4/10, 10 AM3/11/10, 3:30 PM

FELLOWSHIP DEADLINES Professional fellowships provide recent graduates with valuable work experience for a pre-determined amount of time. Check out the BEST Fellowships binder in the Career Development library or search online for more information.

Harris Fellowship in Child Development and Early Childhood EducationNew Haven, CTDEADLINE: 3/3/10 The Harris Fellowship blends educational and clinical perspectives on working with young children. In contrast to other more traditional training programs, this initiative is not simply a "placement" in two training institutions in which the trainee spends an allotted amount of time in specified activities or a few hours a day in a classroom. Fellows work a full teaching schedule at Calvin Hill and become integral to the highly experienced teaching team.INFORMATION: http://calvinhilldaycare.org/training.html

Massachusetts Promise FellowshipVarious locations through MassachusettsDEADLINE: RollingThe Massachusetts Promise Fellowship places Fellows who commit to a year of service at non-profit organizations, schools, and city agencies across Massachusetts to create, lead, and manage youth development projects. INFORMATION: http://www.masspromisefellows.org/beafellow.html

PolitiCorps FellowsPortland, ORDEADLINE: RollingPolitiCorps is a national Fellowship for young progressives interested in a term of service for democracy, and a lifetime of public interest activism. PolitiCorps is an intensive ten-week political organizing bootcamp. Extensive campaign experience is not required, but an understanding of campaign lifestyle does help Fellows make the most of the summer experience. Rolling Deadline but twelve Fellows will be accepted by March 20th, twelve by June 1.INFORMATION: http://politicorps.org/

U.S. PIRG Fellowship ProgramVarious Locations DEADLINE: RollingThe goal of the U.S. PIRG Fellowship Program is to develop recent college graduates for important roles in the movement for positive social change. Gain the hands-on experience it takes to organize public support. Build expertise on transportation solutions, campaign finance reform, toxic pollution cleanup, or another important issue. Conduct research, craft policy solutions, act as a spokesperson to the media, build coalitions, write grants, recruit activists and members, and develop the kind of political support you need to win.INFORMATION: http://www.uspirg.org/jobs/positions/show/60

March 1, 2010

Barnard Career DevelopmentElliott Hall, 2nd Floorwww.barnard.edu/cd

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RACHEL’S CORNERFINDING THE RIGHT COMPANY FOR YOU

It’s that time of year again. First years, sophomores, and juniors are seeking internships for the summer, and seniors are actively searching for their first full-time jobs. As students send out resumes and cover letters and prepare for interviews, many of them come into my office saying: “I hope this company picks me!” My advice to all internship and job seekers: Make sure you want to pick them!

There are many ways you can determine if an organization is right for you. Doing research online, speaking to current employees and attending information sessions are just a few. Forbes recently put out their ‘100 Best Companies to Work For,’ (http://money.cnn.com/magazines/fortune/bestcompanies/2010/full_list/)and ranked companies based on their size, growth, turnover, lay-offs and diversity. Forbes ranked SAS as the #1 company for the last 13 years because of their high-quality child care, 90% coverage of the health insurance premium, unlimited sick days, a medical center staffed by four physicians and 10 nurse practitioners, a free fitness center and natatorium, a lending library, and a summer camp for children.

When making your wish-list for which companies to intern or work, it is important to learn about their cultures so you can find the best possible fit. This research is invaluable. Not only will you make more informed decisions about where to apply, but you will write stronger cover letters and interview more effectively because of your more detailed knowledge of the organization.

Best, Rachel

CAREER FAIRS

BARNARD COLLEGE CAREER FAIR3/26, 11 AM - 3 PM LeFrak Gymnasium, Barnard CollegeMeet employers from business, non-profit, and government agencies as they share information about their organization, as well as full-time, part-time, and internship opportunities. There will be opportunities to interview students on-site during the day of the fair. Business attire required.

COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY NOT-FOR-PROFIT AND PUBLIC SERVICE CAREER FAIR3/5, 12-4 PM Alfred Lerner Hall, Roone Arledge AuditoriumThe Columbia University Center for Career Education will host the 2010 Not-for-Profit and Public Service Career Fair. This event allows students and alumni to explore a wide variety of career fields, employers, and types of employment in the not-for-profit/public service sector. Business attire required.

WOMEN FOR HIRE4/15, 10 AM - 2 PM Sheraton New York Hotel & Towers, 811 7th Ave. @ 53rd St.Important Details: Free admission, free resume critiquing, business attire and resumes required for admittance.INFORMATION: www.womenforhire.com

March 1, 2010

Barnard Career DevelopmentElliott Hall, 2nd Floorwww.barnard.edu/cd

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GET VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES IN YOUR EMAIL!

Make sure to indicate “community service” or “volunteer” as a preference in your eRecruiting profile to receive our community service listserv. You’ll get biweekly announcements of newly posted volunteer opportunities for Barnard students.

CAREER DEVELOPMENT WORKSHOPS

Take advantage of the opportunity to build your career development skills. Attend one or all of the workshops. For more information login to eRecruiting.

SUMMER 2010 FUNDING OPPORTUNITIESAlumnae & Donor Sponsored Internship Grant ProgramDeadline: 4/7/10Many internships that offer great hands-on experience and a chance to gain in-depth knowledge of a field may provide no monetary compensation. For first-year, sophomore, and junior students considering such unpaid internships in the summer of 2010, Barnard College offers funding through alumnae and donor-sponsored grants. Internship grants are available during each semester and the summer, and are awarded on a competitive basis. Grant applications are available on the Career Development website (www.barnard.edu/cd) starting March 15, 2010. Download the form, fill it out, and apply online on eRecruiting. NO late or incomplete applications will be accepted.

Workshops to assist you in successfully applying will be held on the following dates in Career Development. Monday, 3/22; 4PMFriday, 3/26; 1 PMMonday, 3/29; 12 PMTuesday, 3/30; 4 PM

RSVP: eRecruiting

March 1, 2010

Barnard Career DevelopmentElliott Hall, 2nd Floorwww.barnard.edu/cd

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Resume/Cover Letter WorkshopsMonday, 3/1, 12:30-1:30 PMTuesday, 3/9, 3-4 PMWednesday, 3/24, 1-2 PMThursday, 4/1, 4-5 PMFriday, 4/9, 10:30-11:30 AMMonday, 4/12, 11:30-12:30 PMTuesday, 4/20, 3-4 PMWednesday, 4/28, 12:30-1:30 PM

Job/Internship SearchTuesday, 3/2, 12:30-1:30 PMWednesday, 3/10, 4-5 PMThursday, 4/1, 10-11 AMMonday, 4/5, 4-5 PMTuesday, 4/13, 10:30-11:30 AMWednesday, 4/21, 3-4 PMMonday, 4/26, 12-1 PM

Interview Workshops Wednesday, 3/10, 12-1 PMThursday, 3/25, 11 AM-12 PMFriday, 4/16, 4-5 PMMonday, 4/26, 3:30-4:30 PM

Professional Networking OnlineMonday, 3/1, 4-5 PMMonday, 3/22, 12:30-1:30 PMTuesday, 4/6, 11 AM-12 PMWednesday, 4/21, 12:30-1:30 PM

MARCH CALENDAR

Resume & Cover Letter WorkshopMonday, 3/1 at 12:30 PMTuesday, 3/9 at 3 PMWednesday, 3/24 at 1 PMCareer Development Seminar RoomRSVP: eRecruitingLearn to compose a superior resume and cover letter.

Networking WorkshopMonday, 3/1 at 1 PMMonday, 3/22 at 12:30 PMCareer Development Seminar RoomRSVP: eRecruitingLearn to network with the professional contacts you already have, and those you have yet to meet.

How To Make The Most of a Career FairTuesday, 3/2 at 10 AMWednesday, 3/3 at 12 PMTuesday, 3/23 at 12 PMWednesday, 3/24 at 3:30 PMCareer Development Seminar ROomRSVP: eRecruitingCome to this interactive workshop to learn how you can prepare before the fair, as well as get tips for making a lasting impression during and after the fair.

Job & Internship Search WorkshopTuesday, 3/2 at 12:30 PMWednesday, 3/10 at 4 PMCareer Development Seminar RoomRSVP: eRecruitingLearn how to maximize your job and internship search using Career Development resources, networking, and more.

BEST OrientationWednesday, 3/3 at 3:30 PMThursday, 3/4 at 10 AMThursday, 3/11 at 3:30 PMCareer Development Seminar RoomRSVP: eRecruitingCome to this orientation to hear about BEST policies and procedures, as well as how you can get involved.

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Not For Profit and Public Service Career FairFriday, 3/5 at 11 AMLerner Hall AuditoriumSee pg. 6 for more details.

Senior Initiative Workshop: Negotiation SkillsMonday, 3/8 at 5 PMCareer Development LibraryFor Senior Initiative Participants only.

Internship Poster ReceptionTuesday, 3/9 at 4:30 PMJames Room, Barnard HallRSVP: eRecruitingJoin the Fall 2009 and Spring 2010 recipients of the Alumnae & Donor Sponsored Internship Grant Program as they display information about their funded internships. Network with your peers and learn more about potential internship sites, as well as grant opportunities for student internships.

Interview SkillsWednesday, 3/10 at 12 PMThursday, 3/25 at 11 AMCareer Development Seminar Room RSVP: eRecruitingLearn how to prepare for an interview, ask the right questions of your interviewer, and what to do afterward.

NYCCEP: Focus On Transportation and The Environment in NYCWednesday, 3/24 at 6:30 PMSulzberger Parlor, Barnard HallRSVP: eRecruitingJoin representatives from Transportation Alternatives and city government to discuss the overlaps between our transportation system and the environment in New York City.

Barnard College Career FairFriday, 3/26 at 11 AMLeFrak Gymnasium, Barnard HallMeet employers from business, non-profit, and government agencies as they share information about their organization, as well as full-time, part-time, and internship opportunities. There will be opportunities to interview students on-site during the day of the fair. Business attire required.

NYC Civic Engagement: New York Cares Volunteer Leadership ConferenceSaturday, 3/27 at 9 AMBarnard CollegeAre you leading a volunteer project now? Interested in volunteer management as a career possibility? Barnard College hosts the 2010 New York Cares Team Leader conference and invites a select group of students to participate. Registration information TBD.

6th Annual Sports Career Fair with NETS BasketballWednesday, 3/31 at 2 PMIZOD Center, East Rutherford, NJFor more information, please contact Ken Dorsett of the NETS at 201-635-3414 or email kdorsett@njnets.com.

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DROP-IN HOURS

Career CounselorsMonday - Friday12 PM - 2 PM

Peer Career AdvisorsMonday - Friday10 AM - 4 PM