Attire for a job fair??

[fleur-de-lis, BSN, RN]

I have perused the threads on dressing for interviews, but I am not sure how to dress for a school-sponsored nursing job fair that is tomorrow on campus. I was thinking long skirt and a corduroy jacket, but I am afraid that is too casual. But I'm also thinking maybe a suit is too dressy, since it is not an interview. Maybe dress slacks and a button up shirt or a sweater? What do you think?

[llg, PhD, RN]

I think your thoughts are on track. "Business casual" is a nice comfortable compromise. The employers at the fair will not expect you to wear a suit -- but the blue jeans, crop top, sandals, etc. look doesn't give a professional impression. Choosing something in between -- such as nice slacks or a skirt -- is a good choice.

A few more tips:

1. Bring copies of your resume if you have it. It will help them contact you later and gives you a chance to "show off" a little.

2. At least pause and ask a few basic questions at instititions in your geographic area even if you doubt you want to work there. It will help you to know what the "community standard" is for things like orientation programs, scheduling, compensation -- so that you can view the hospitals in which you are most interested into proper perspective. Comparing institutions in different geographic areas is a bit like comparing apples to oranges.

3. Don't forget to smile.

Good luck!

llg

[gitterbug]

Clean neat dress pants, tailored top or plain sweater, low heeled shoes, minimal makeup and jewelry. Hair neat and clean. Nails neat, no purple polish. If pants are not the thing, then a simple tailored skirt, or dress.

[fleur-de-lis, BSN, RN]

Thank you for the replies! I think business casual is the consensus from my classmates as well.