Preparing for a Career Mixer

Bauer holds Pre-Recruiting / Internship Mixers before each Fall and Spring semester. In addition, many Bauer student organizations hold Mixers and Career Fairs throughout the semester.  Here are some tips to get you ready to make your best impression on employers at these events. 

 

Résumé

Bauer recommends that students use the approved college formats for BBA/MS Accounting students and MBA/MS students.  These formats are one page long and have been vetted over several semesters by the RCC Advisory Board of employers. We also recommend printing on regular paper instead of thick “résumé” paper. It will save you money and make the recruiter’s job easier.

Having trouble describing the knowledge, skills, and abilities gained from your last job? Check out this list of Action Verbs.

Did you transfer to Bauer recently? Are you in the Honors College, Professional Program in Accounting or other special Bauer program? If so, check out how to use these Alternate Resume Sections.

 

Research Companies

Everyone should spend a few minutes at potential employer’s web pages, especially the About Us section, as well as the company social media links.

Beyond the basics, one of the best resources for researching companies is Mergent Intellect provided through the University of Houston Libraries. Asst. Dean for Career Services Jamie Belinne does a quick walk-through of using Mergent at the following links:

Log in & Company Research in Mergent

Industry Research in Mergent

Mergent is also available through Bauer Career Gateway to current Bauer students.

In addition, through Bauer Career Gateway, Bauer students have access to Vault which provides in-depth intelligence on what it’s really like to work within an industry, company, or profession—and how to position yourself to launch and build the career you want. Log in to Bauer Career Gateway via AccessUH.

Business Casual Dress

The Mixers are Business Casual events, meaning you do not need to wear a suit or business professional attire to the Mixers like you would for the Career Fair. 

Polo shirts (a great option for men and women) along with khakis or slacks or knee-length skirts for women. Steer clear of tee shirts, jeans, sandals & tennis shoes.

30 Second Me / Introduction 

New to networking events? Introduce yourself with these basics:

  • Name

  • Classification (Junior, Senior, MBA, etc.)

  • Major / Degree Program

  • Your purpose for attending the event (“I’m currently seeking an internship for next Summer.”)

 

Check out this video on the Basics of How to Network 

Want to upgrade your engagement game? Check out this article on the 30-second “pitch” at networking events.

 

One of the cornerstones of networking is the handshake. Check out this video if this networking basic has you shaking… from fear.

Remember to do these things at the event:

  • Get business cards or contact information from company representatives

  • Ask when they will be back on campus

  • Make a quick note about your conversation to jog your memory later (and help with the follow up)

 

After the event:

  • Follow Up with recruiters! Check out this sample follow up from HireBauer.com

  • Did the recruiter ask you to connect on LinkedIn? Make sure you take advantage of that!  If you don’t have LinkedIn or your profile needs a tune-up, check out our LinkedIn Resources and this Getting Started guide from LinkedIn.

  • If the company posted jobs on Bauer Career Gateway, go apply!

 

Remember that Career Counselors are here to help get you ready for all your Career Events, Networking, Job Applications, Job Interviews, and all your career development-related questions.  Drop by and see us during drop-in hours for quick questions or make an appointment in Bauer Career Gateway.

Follow us on Social Media for tips and news on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and LinkedIn.

See you soon!

 

By Troy Hopkins
Troy Hopkins Director, Undergraduate Career Counseling