Guest Blog: How to Make the Most of Tech Career Expo

By On June 22, 2012 · Leave a Comment

By Mary Loeffler, VP of Human Resources, PulsePoint

There are more than 45 companies participating in the Tech Career Expo at the Moscone Center in San Francisco on June 28-29, and the number of attendees is expected to exceed 2,000. How will you set yourself apart? Follow these best practices to make the most of your time with the companies you will meet:

Do Pre-Expo homework. Research the companies and make a top ten list of those you want to visit. Researching the companies may sound obvious, but having that head start and focusing on the companies whose roles and technologies truly appeal to you first, will provide a roadmap and ensure that you accomplish your objectives. Researching and understanding the businesses beforehand will also help you have knowledgeable conversations and make memorable impressions on the company representatives.

Keep it simple. Don’t bring a 6-page resume listing every technology and language you know. List the technologies which you have the most experience. Bring a resume that is no more than 2 pages and if a company on your resume is not well-known, add 1 – 2 sentences describing the company and technology.

Engage the decision maker. Some companies will have the hiring manager at the Career Expo, try to meet with him/her and discuss the role and your accomplishments. Remember to get business cards!

Follow up after the Career Expo. If you made good connections with the representatives, send follow-up emails reiterating a specific fact from your conversation. This will show that you weren’t just a face in the crowd.

These tips will help you focus on the companies and opportunities that are best matched to your career plans. Make an impact with your knowledge and expertise and you are sure to set yourself apart from the crowd!