Employer Conversational Tool

Talking to a potential employer can be intimidating and overwhelming. Below is a sample interaction to help you navigate a conversation at a career fair, information session, or networking event. In the example, your parts will be in bold, and the employers part will be in italics.

Hello, my name is (first and last name).

Pause: Let them introduce themselves.

I’m a senior at the University of Houston and am looking to pursue public relations. I graduate in May 2025.

Pause: Let them respond with an introduction of their title and role at a company or with a question for you. If there is not question after their introduction...

I am interested in talking to you about the (internship or job) opportunities at (company name). I am excited to see that (company name) is here, since I:
(Give ONE reason you are interested in the position or company. Some reasons may be:)

  • follow your company closely

  • am familiar with your products or services

  • knew someone who interned there

  • worked in the (XYZ) industry before,

  • have experience in managing projects and I know this role has a lot of that

Pause for a few seconds to see if they offer any questions or input on your above comments. They may ask you for your resume.

“I’d love to tell you about an experience I had (in class/at an internship) last summer/last year/this year.” After the story ask “would you like to see my resume?”

Pause: This will likely lead to questions/conversation about your background and interests.

Try to close the conversation with either:

  • “I would like the opportunity to talk further in a career fair next year,”

  • “Do you have a business card so I can keep in touch with you later for further conversations or connect with you on LinkedIn?”

Valenti Office of Experiential Learning

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Employer Research Worksheet

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Preparing for a Career Fair