The National Black MBA Association conference features one of the largest career fairs for graduate business students in the country. For 2024, Terps are fortunate that it will be right in our backyard of Washington, DC! Join us September 19-20 at the Washington DC Convention Center (easily accessible from the Metro green line).
Career Fairs can be a great way to meet many employers at once and explore a range of industries, however, they do require preparation and there is often a cost to register. Review the employer list in advance and talk to a coach if you’re unsure whether the fair is right for you.
Tips to Prepare:
- Be sure to register via the Conference website and on HireSmith. Coaches will be at the Career Fair – find us in booth 2420 – we want to know who is coming! Note that it may be more cost effective to join NBMBAA as a member and then complete the registration payment for the Conference.
- Upload the most recent version of your resume to the Conference site in advance and be sure to indicate that your profile can be searched for by employers. Begin applying to the positions that interest you the most. If your resume hasn’t been reviewed by a coach recently, check in with OCS to make sure you’re make the best impression possible!
- Develop a plan for which employers you plan to visit. Identify your top target companies, but also a few that you are curious about and may be potential options. You won’t be able to see everyone at the fair, so having a plan is key!
- Practice your “Tell Me About Yourself” pitch with friends, classmates, and coaches or use online tools like Big Interview or Quinncia to prepare.
- Polish your LinkedIn profile and favorite the QR code for your profile so you can easily pull it up onsite. Have some hard copies of your resume available, but know that most employers will look for digital information.
- Ensure your professional outfit is dry cleaned and you have comfortable shoes for the day. Your outfit should compliment the content you have to share, not distract from it.
- Get a good night’s rest and prepare to make the most of the fair! It is a long couple of days so take breaks, recharge as needed, and keep yourself focused on your goals.
- After the fair, be sure to follow up. Connect on LinkedIn, send thank you notes, and complete online applications as directed by recruiters.
If you missed the Career Fair Launchpad, check out our opening session and student success panel for additional tips!
