Preparing for a Job Fair

To network with potential employers in the Western North Carolina Region, identify present and future opportunities, and gain employment.

Short Video: Preparing for Virtual Fairs 

Preparing for a Job Fair can be a stressful process, but it does not have to be! We offer a wide range of resources for our current students, alumni and community members. With “community” being our middle name, we believe in providing free events and technology platforms to help individuals in preparing for college and in obtaining employment in our regional economy. 

Below you will find our recommendations for preparing for Job Fairs at SCC. If you have any questions please contact Career Services. 

Note about Virtual Job Fairs or Events with Employers:
All of the steps you would take for a face-to-face event are still relevant for meeting online, along with technology, having an appropriate location and surroundings if you are on camera, and preparation.

5 Steps to Prepare for a Job Fair:
1. Write and Update your Resume: 
Every successful job search begins with updating a resume. You can find a number of resources on our Resume Writing page, as well as presentations we have had recorded. 
• If you are a current SCC student, or Alumni, you can meet with Career Services to update your current resume. 
• If you are a community member, and not an SCC student or alumni, you can utilize resources through College and Career Readiness including their Job and Career Preparation services, like resume building.

2. Research Employers who are attending the fair: 
The SCC Job Board through Career Services is a free technology tool that is accessible to Students, Alumni, and Community Members. Employers register for our Job Fairs through our Job Board, so you are able to see who will be attending the fair ahead of time, and view their current or upcoming job openings. We also keep a running list of who is registered for the job fairs on this Google Document page.
Researching employers and job opportunities ahead of attending the fairs is crucial to provide a solid first impression when you interact with an employer.  

3. Practice Interviewing Questions:
Big Interview is our free online mock interview technology platform. You are able to complete learning tracks on the foundations of interviewing, and purpose behind the questions that you are asked during an interview. You are also able to practice questions and map out how you will share your “interview story.” 
We recommend that job fair attendees complete the “Fast Track” in Big Interview, and practice mapping out their answers to general questions. We also recommend viewing our Interview Preparation presentations on our Recorded Events and Presentations page. 

4. Dress for Success: 
The biggest feedback we get from employers after job fairs always includes whether candidates were dressed appropriately or not. We have provided some general information about “Dressing for Success” in our “Supplementary Resources” section on our Recorded Events and Presentations page. 
SCC also has a Career Closet on campus through our College and Career Readiness Department. Clothing from the Career Closet is FREE, and available to students, graduates, and community members. If you would like to shop for Job Fair appropriate attire from the Career Closet, please contact Donna Wilson at 828.339.4272.

5. Follow Up, Apply to Jobs, and Connect on LinkedIn: 
After the job fair has concluded, it will be time to follow up with employers and apply for jobs. We also suggest connecting with employers and SCC support staff on LinkedIn, which is a professional networking site. 
We encourage you to watch our LinkedIn Presentation prior to setting up an account, and visit our LinkedIn page for more information.