Before the expo

Advice to have phone and computer charged, being at a place with a stable internet connection,
being in a quite room, getting ready for potential video interviews –no pyjama but professional
outfit even if this is an online event.

Prepare CV
You must prepare a CV and bring some copies to distribute to the employer of choice. Your CV
must be clean, edited, clear and concise. Please check out the sample of CV:

 Sample CV

Search for Participating Organization

Conduct research of the participating organizations. Visit their websites and understand what the
organization is about, in terms of their industry, what they are looking for and determine why
they are the best fit for you. We highly discourage applying for any jobs or employer for the sake
of employment. You must find your choice of employer and focus on it. The more focused you
are, the more chance you have of securing employment. We will start listing participating
organizations before the event so that you have time to review them.

Practice your pitch

Since you will not be able to meet with a representative of the organizations, you must prepare
for a short discussion, maximum 10 minutes. Employers will ask you what you have studied,
what is your career interest, what do you know about them and why you want to work for them.
Be brief, clear and confident in your response. We recommend you practice interviewing with
your friends before coming to the Career Expo. Remember, you want to leave a lasting
impression on the employer. Ask yourself, “How will you stand out among many applicants.”
What will you say so that employers will remember you?

Dress the Part

Although participating in a virtual career expo adds a sense of comfort, it is important to remain
professional. Avoid wearing street-wear or pajamas, treat this expo like an in-person interview.
Your appearance is the first thing an employer will notice about you, best to make that first
impression count.

Prepare your Materials

All participants will be provided with a designated time slot to interact with employers, make
sure you are well prepared beforehand. Charge your laptop, test your computers’ webcam and
microphone, make sure you have a stable network connection. These are the three most
important aspects of a virtual expo.

Space Matters
Another key aspect to consider when preparing for this expo is location. Your environment will
impact your experience during this fair. Create a quiet and comforting space that allows you to
focus, as well as calm your nerves. Dereja’s tips include: Make sure you are sitting in a chair
with a desk, with no distractions or background noises. This will help you stay focused during
your interviews.
During Expo
Organize Your Day
Since you will not have the chance to meet everyone, please select your choice from your own
research or the match list provided during registration, and concentrate on those that fit your
interest and qualifications. First, list the organizations you would like to meet. Keep in mind, you
will have a limited time slot to network with employers, so plan accordingly. When it is your
turn to meet a representative, introduce yourself and tell them why you are interested in their
opportunities. Remember to be clear and concise in your response.

Be Professional
During the Expo you are introducing yourself to potential employers, therefore it is important to
employ professionalism throughout the duration of your stay. This includes:

 Time management: ensure that you arrive on time according to your allotted time slot on
the given day. If you plan to attend any training and/or workshops make sure to arrive on
time.
 Communication: make sure to communicate with potential employers in a professional
and respectful manner

After Expo
Follow-Up is Key
Make sure to reach out to all of the recruiters you spoke with, especially those looking to build
their pipeline. Although they may not have vacant positions at the moment that will change and
keeping contact makes you a viable candidate for future positions.

Keep Practicing
Continue to build your soft skills for future expos and interviews. Make sure to check in at our
webpage: Dereja.com for more resources and future events.

Graduates Guide to Participate

Frequently asked questions