10 Tips for Success at Radford's Fall Career Expo: A Guide for Business Majors

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Radford University's Fall Career Expo is just around the corner, starting tomorrow, Wednesday, September 18th, from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm in KH340. To help students make the most of this event, Radford’s Career and Talent Services recently hosted a session with industry professionals, offering invaluable advice on building a solid resume, networking effectively, and leveraging LinkedIn for career success. Here are the top 10 tips shared to help business majors enhance their career readiness and stand out to potential employers:

1. Build a Professional LinkedIn Profile

Your LinkedIn profile is like a live, ever-evolving resume. Ensure it includes accurate information, professional photos, and detailed descriptions of your experiences. Showcase leadership roles, extracurricular activities, and initiatives to make your profile more appealing to potential employers. Including a brief biography can also give recruiters a quick overview of your interests and qualifications.

2. Keep Your Resume Concise and Tailored

When applying for specific job opportunities, tailor your resume to the job description. Use relevant keywords that align with the roles you’re applying for to help pass through automated systems. Additionally, have multiple versions of your resume ready for different scenarios, focusing on highlighting the skills and experiences most relevant to each position.

3. Attend Career Fairs with Confidence

Career fairs are a prime opportunity to connect with potential employers. Don’t be nervous; recruiters are there to meet and hire students like you! Have a polished resume on hand and include something memorable about yourself or your experiences to help you stand out. Remember to be authentic and genuine during interactions—it’s one of the best ways to make a positive impression.

4. Take Advantage of Professional Headshots

First impressions matter; a professional photo can set the tone for your LinkedIn profile and other networking platforms. Radford University offers students the chance to take professional headshots, which can enhance their online presence and improve their recognition among recruiters.

5. Follow Up After Career Fairs

After meeting recruiters at career fairs, follow up with a personalized email or LinkedIn message to leave a lasting impression. Mention a memorable part of your conversation to help them recall who you are. Writing a short note on a business card can also be a helpful reminder for recruiters who meet many candidates.

6. Highlight Extracurricular Activities

Employers are looking for well-rounded candidates. Including extracurricular activities, volunteer work, and leadership roles on your resume and LinkedIn profile can showcase your teamwork, collaboration, and initiative. These experiences reflect your ability to balance multiple responsibilities and your willingness to engage beyond the classroom.

7. Consider Video Resumes and Personal Branding

Video resumes can help you stand out and showcase your personality. However, be cautious, as not all companies accept video files due to security concerns. A collage of pictures highlighting your skills and experiences can be a creative alternative that avoids firewall issues. No matter the format, focus on personal branding to present a unique, authentic version of yourself to potential employers.

8. Leverage LinkedIn as a Networking Tool

Use LinkedIn to build relationships with recruiters, alumni, and industry professionals. Personalize your connection requests and keep your profile updated with recent achievements and experiences. Networking on LinkedIn allows recruiters to get a holistic view of who you are beyond what’s on your resume, making it a powerful tool in your job search.

9. Explore Training Programs for Career Development

Companies like Sherwin-Williams, Hitachi Energy, and CGI offer structured training programs for new hires, focusing on hands-on experience, mentorship, and continuous learning. Research these opportunities and highlight your interest in professional development during interviews. Demonstrating your willingness to learn and grow can set you apart from other candidates.

10. Participate in Networking Events and Follow Up

Networking events provide valuable chances to learn about the job market and meet potential employers. Make it a priority to attend these events, including career fairs, and always follow up with the contacts you make. Sending a personalized LinkedIn message or email can help reinforce the connection and demonstrate your genuine interest in the company or industry.

By implementing these tips, business majors can strengthen their career readiness and improve their chances of landing their desired job in today’s competitive job market. Update your LinkedIn profile, polish your resume, and get ready to network confidently. Taking these proactive steps can open doors to a wide range of career opportunities.

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