First of all, this man or woman is a person who was raised by human parents and will not attack unless you threaten his life. Unlikely in an interview. The key to getting along is to be yourself; and treat her like a real person.

That means small talk with a little kick to start. Here are some ways to do this: Show Empathy: “It must be hard to recruit students all day and answer so many questions.”

Ask for an Opinion: “What do you think of the direction RIM Corporation is taking this year? (You MUST have some information about the company to use this question.)

Show interest in the recruiter’s personal experience: “How long have you been with the company? How did you get involved in…? What brought you to…?”

Actually, we ask these kinds of questions all the time when we are having a social conversation. The business version is just a little more limited in topics.

You sweat through your exams, drink vats of coffee at all-nighters and cram your brain full of facts. You’re on your way to earning your degree. Your mind drifts to dreams of your own apartment, a car, food on the table, the occasional party – bring it on!

But first things first – You need a job!! So when you see a little flyer or e-mail announcing a reception, luncheon or career day for job recruiters and students, jump right in. Of course not all experiences at these events are great – some people have disasters. Some students go to employer events without much thought. With a little preparation and some handy tips, you can make the most of this type of event

What are your goals for employer events?

• to find out more about a particular area that interests you
• to find out what it’s like to work in different environments
• to find out what makes one company different than another

But it’s hard to do this unless you talk to recruiters.

Does the thought of talking to a recruiter about your career makes you nauseous?

Everyone worries about the same thing.

• We worry that: I’ll say the wrong thing and embarrass myself
• We are here to help you feel more comfortable.
• Compared to job interviews, recruiting events have very little downside.
• Recruiters are at these events to sell their firm to YOU.
• They love to give advice about different areas and different firms.

BUT: Although they are not actual interviews, these events are business environments and you should treat them as such.

• Your professionalism is on display.
• Get into the habit of making a great first impression.