Connect With Employers

Build meaningful Connections

No matter where you are in the job-seeking journey, the Walter Center is here to help you navigate what's out there for a liberal arts student like yourself. The Walter Center hosts many employer events and career fairs each semester, allowing you to immerse yourself in career exploration and:

Investigate careers and fields that fit your interests
Meet representatives from organizations that inspire you
Increase your chances of interviewing with an employer
Get on the radar of top recruiters
Grow your network and build meaningful relationships

Be sure to be prepared

Attending one of our events? Don’t just show up—show up ready to wow them! If you want to put your best foot forward, it’s best to do a little homework first:

Ensure your resume is up-to-date and ready to share with potential employers. Get help with your application materials and stop by the Career Studio.

Visit the Career Studio

Meet with one of our career coaches to help prioritize your goals, research potential employers, and frame your mindset as you approach an employer event or career fair.

Find a career coach

Having the Handshake app downloaded before events can speed up the check-in process and allow you to see which employers will be attending.

Download Handshake app

Know what you're going to ask (and what you're going to say)—it shows the employer you're serious about your job search.

For internship seekers:

What experience or skills might I gain as an intern with your organization?
Are internships paid or for academic credit?
Do many interns transition to full-time roles after the internship?
What's your favorite part about working for this organization?

For job seekers:

What skills do you look for in potential applicants?
What types of prior work experience are essential?
What is the best way to apply, and how long does the application process take?
Will you be conducting interviews on campus?
What's the best way to follow up after expressing interest?

Prepare to answer questions:

When are you available to begin working?
Are you interested in full-time or internship opportunities?
What kind of position are you looking for?
Which geographic areas interest you?
Why did you stop at our table today?
May I have a copy of your resume?

Don't ask what positions employers have. Instead, tell them what you seek by preparing a 'pitch' or elevator speech. Your pitch should be a 10-to-15-second introduction that includes:

Who are you (primary interests)
What you can offer (skills, experience)
What you're looking for (show tailored interest in the company)
A relevant follow-up question specific to the organization

Example:
Hi, I'm Jordan Wang, a junior at IU majoring in merchandising. I interned last summer with a designer in New York, which sparked my interest in clothes designed for customers with disabilities. I want to complete another internship in a related area this summer. I understand that your company has recently developed a line of activewear for customers with disabilities. What does the process for creating such an innovative line look like?

Depending on specific industry expectations, individual workplace cultures, and one's cultural background and style, dressing professionally will inevitably vary significantly from situation to situation. Take a look at examples of business casual and business professional.