Kimberly B. Cummings

Prepare Yourself Before You Get to Oakland You know that companies are coming to AfroTech intending to connect with Black talent, so there’s no reason to arrive unprepared. Before arriving in Oakland, dust off your resume, update your LinkedIn profile and rehearse your elevator pitch. While you’ll have the opportunity to connect with employers at their booths, there are also recruiting and networking events nearly every evening where you can have informal and formal conversations that could lead to potential opportunities. Some companies may have roles open and available at AfroTech while others may be collecting resumes for future use. Regardless of the situation, ensure that you make a connection with someone at the booth and follow up. This is not the time to walk away, not remembering someone’s name or having their email. If they do not share their business cards, connect on LinkedIn, and thank them for speaking with you and reiterate your interest in the company. Prioritize the...