Are you graduating this year? Or perhaps trying to land a summer job or internship? Just a bit of interviewing and schmoozing stands between you and The Dream.

You sweat through your exams, drink vats of coffee at all-nighters and cram your brain full of facts. You’re on your way to earning your degree. Your mind drifts to dreams of your own apartment, a car, food on the table, the occasional party – bring it on!

But first things first – You need a job!! So when you see a little flyer or e-mail announcing a reception, luncheon or career day for job recruiters and students, jump right in. Of course not all experiences at these events are great – some people have disasters. Some students go to employer events without much thought. With a little preparation and some handy tips, you can make the most of this type of event

What are your goals for employer events?

• to find out more about a particular area that interests you
• to find out what it’s like to work in different environments
• to find out what makes one company different than another

But it’s hard to do this unless you talk to recruiters.

Does the thought of talking to a recruiter about your career makes you nauseous?

Everyone worries about the same thing.

• We worry that: I’ll say the wrong thing and embarrass myself
• We are here to help you feel more comfortable.
• Compared to job interviews, recruiting events have very little downside.
• Recruiters are at these events to sell their firm to YOU.
• They love to give advice about different areas and different firms.

BUT: Although they are not actual interviews, these events are business environments and you should treat them as such.

• Your professionalism is on display.
• Get into the habit of making a great first impression.