Meet the Firms Crash Course

Whether you're attending Meet the Firms for the first time or you're a seasoned participant, it’s always smart to refresh your approach to this pivotal recruiting event. Since our last MTF was virtual, this may be your first in-person accounting career fair—an exciting opportunity to make a strong impression!

If you're seeking an internship or full-time role, MTF is a must-attend. It’s your chance to connect with top employers and let them match a face to your resume.

Even if you're an underclassman, this event is still valuable. Think of it as a “dress rehearsal”—a chance to observe, absorb, and prepare for when it’s your turn to be recruited. Don’t hesitate to tell firms you’re early in your ACCT coursework and attending to learn more about their career paths and culture.

Rules For A Good Meet the Firms Performance:

Before the Event

Do Your Homework on the Firms: Use the Career Fair Plus app to explore employer profiles—know their office locations, size, and standout features. Use the “Drop Resume” button to express interest in advance (but still visit their table!).

Have a Game Plan: Review the HHH floor plan and exhibitor map (via logistics email or the app) to prioritize your time. If you want to meet 12 employers in 2 hours, that’s 10 minutes per table—budget wisely.

Know Your Location Preferences: 

• Target internships in cities where you’d like to work full-time.
• Rank your top two city preferences and focus on employers in your #1 location.
• If your GPA is below 3.0, consider staying within Alabama/Georgia to maximize options.
• Avoid vague answers like “Anywhere in the Southeast”—employers want to hear specific interest in their location.

Know Your Service Area Preferences:

• Be ready to discuss your service area preference - Audit, Tax or Advisory.
• Do your homework and express a preference—even if tentative. Saying “I’m open” can come across as unprepared.
• Audit may also be referred to as "Assurance" and Advisory could be referred to as "Consulting."

Print Your Resume:

• Bring at least 25 copies on professional resume paper.
  • The OPCD in 101 Lowder will print 10 copies for free (when their office is in service, unfortunately not this fall)
• Keep them neat in a leather (or tasteful) padfolio (a folder is also ok).

At the Event

Dress for Success:

• BUSINESS PROFESSIONAL is ideal, but business casual is acceptable if that’s more practical.
• Men: shave and get a haircut.
• Women: go easy on perfume and jewelry; wear comfortable, modest heels (those stairs can be rough in high heels).
• Make sure your outfit is pressed and polished—let your resume and personality shine.

Attend PEPtalks at 5:

• Quick, focused prep sessions designed to help students polish their professional presence before Meet the Firms.

• They offer insider tips on how to stand out, ask smart questions, and make memorable first impressions with recruiters.

• You'll gain confidence, clarity, and a game plan for navigating the event like a pro. Walk away with practical strategies and talking points tailored to the firms attending.

Engage Thoughtfully:

• Hand your resume to each employer of interest.
• Ask for a business card and jot notes on the back to personalize your follow-up.
• Use the 1st floor BEST Room as a quiet space to reflect and take notes.

Ask Smart Questions:

• Inquire about recruiting timelines, posted positions, and Summer Leadership Programs (SLPs).
• Most juniors will apply for internships in the month following MTF—track deadlines carefully.

About SLPs:

• • • These selective, all-expenses-paid firm-hosted events offer career development and networking.
    • Not everyone will attend, but you should ask and apply.
    • Watch for SLP announcements in the weekly ACCT Recruiting News & Events Newsletter and on the SOA Blog.

After the Event

Say THANK YOU:

• A follow-up email is a great way to stand out.
• Reference your conversation (e.g., “Bob mentioned he just finished the MAcc and loves NASCAR”) to jog their memory.
• Email is best—especially if you have a question or want to reiterate your interest.

GOOD LUCK!