One Fair. Endless Opportunities.

Get Ready!

Research and get to know the organizations ahead of time. Be prepared to be asked interview-type questions or inquiries. Check their websites and review their social media accounts for news and updates.  

• the Position(s) available
• their Company background/values

Prepare questions you have about the company or role(s) in question. Aim to ask specific questions that cannot be easily found on the internet. 

Consider: Stay on top of the Important Dates!

The career fair is open to all students and we invite 1st year and new students to see potential career options led from what you are studying or degree!

• However: If you are a 3rd, 4th+, graduate or alumni student, or a student who is looking to land a co-op or opportunities:
  
  • These are industry professionals and recruiters from companies who are seeking talented individuals like you!
  • Consult the Information Page to find out what the organizations are looking for.
    
    • Reach out if you have any additional questions.  

Know Your Strengths

• Reflect on past experiences and education to identify strengths and skills. Be prepared to articulate them when asked.

Visit Resources: 

• Career and Volunteer Resources Page  Find self-directed resources here! *Note appointments will be well-after Fair day. You can still book, but it will likely not be in time. 
• Find SFU student's stories and articles here: https://olc.sfu.ca/
  
  • Recommended Filter: Topics: Work/Volunteer, Coop, Profession Development. Or, Program: Career and Volunteer Services. You may filter by faculty too.

CVS Canvas 2023 Course to help prepare you on Networking and Resumes: Self Enroll here!

For any career, position and job searching efforts, always research the company. Not only this is to get a better sense, but to see if it is the right place for you! We do our best to ensure these are registered organizations with existing appropriate licenses.

COMPLETE COMPREHENSIVE INFORMATION ON:

• On scams, checklists, things to look for, etc.

https://www.sfu.ca/students/career/prepare/evaluating-organizations.html

Consider Asking Yourself:

• Before the Fair or During the Fair: Identify the organization and position, and ask yourself if you would fit! Not only from a skills and qualifications perspective, but considering factors to see if you can reflect or see yourself there. Do your research!
  
  • Work Culture
  • Visions and Values
  • Missions
  • Organization
  • Business Model
    
  • Clarity and Public Image on the organization

Additional Reminders Beyond the Fair:

• Anything too good to be true or requires non-explicit large/continued money/investment/purchases - exercise awareness!
  
• Trust your instincts and have a second pair of eyes and talk to others about the position.
• Book an appointment with CVS for interview prep or tips help.
• Working in BC are protected by sets of BC laws and acts in place: Familiarize yourself to BC Employment Standards and the right to refuse unsafe work - Work Safe BC.
  • Read this good general overview with these key notes.

This is not to be sought as legal advice, but rather for informative use. SFU students please reach out to staff (international students for SFU International Student Services) for support. Co-op students, reach out to your coordinator.

Apply Your Preparation Efforts

• Approach and introduce yourself! Be profession and genuine! Ask questions you prepared beforehand! 

First Impression Matters

• Dress as if you are going to an interview, greet the representatives with a smile and introduce yourself with confidence.
  
  • You don't have to wear a business formal style (although you could) or get a new outfit, but take some time to think on it! Don't rush.  

Make It Last

• Extend the connection beyond the Fair by asking to connect on LinkedIn.
  
• Ask for their application process. Employers may have an online application process.
  • If you prepared a resume and have done your research, ask if they are accepting resumes before giving it to them

Workshops & Panel Events

Need help to get ready for the fair? We've got you covered! Click on the links below to watch the recorded sessions or register for the future sessions:

• CVS Canvas 2023 Course to help prepare you on Networking and Resumes: Self Enroll here!
  https://canvas.sfu.ca/enroll/R8WH3G
• Rehash your Resume Workshop - Watch the recording
• Career Building for Changemakers Workshop - Watch the recording and download workshop materials
• Applying for Grad School Workshop - Watch the recording
• Network Like a Pro: An Employer Panel - Watch the recording
• Visit OLC Career and Volunteer Services - Read articles for advice!