Career fairs are a great way to connect with employers, explore career opportunities, and practice talking about your skills and experience.
Whether this is your first career fair or you’ve been to several, a little preparation can make a big difference. Use these 10 tips to walk in feeling prepared and confident.
1. Research the Employers
Don’t wait until you’re standing at a company’s table to learn who they are. Look through the employer list and identify a few companies you’re interested in. Learn what they do, what positions they hire for, and why you’d want to work there.
2. Update Your Resume
Make sure your resume is current, easy to read, and highlights experiences relevant to the types of positions you’re seeking. Bring several copies with you. Need a second set of eyes? Career Services can help you review your resume before the fair.
3. Prepare Your Introduction
Be ready to answer the question: “Tell me about yourself.” Keep it short and natural. Share your name, major, year in school, relevant experience or interests, and what you’re hoping to find.
4. Dress for the Opportunity
First impressions matter. Choose professional attire that makes you feel confident and is appropriate for the industries you’re exploring. When in doubt, it’s better to be slightly more professional than too casual.
5. Plan Your Route
Review the employer list ahead of time and make a game plan. Start with a few companies you’re especially interested in, but leave room to explore employers you may not have considered.
6. Ask Good Questions
A career fair should be a conversation, not just a resume drop-off. Try questions like:
- “What opportunities do you have for students in my major?”
- “What skills do you look for in interns?”
- “What does a typical day look like in this role?”
- “What advice would you give a student interested in your industry?”
7. Don’t Limit Yourself to Your Major
Your major doesn’t always determine your career path. Employers often hire students from a variety of academic backgrounds. Be open to learning about opportunities that may not have an obvious connection to your degree.
8. Practice Your Professional Presence
Make eye contact, smile, introduce yourself clearly, and listen when employers are speaking. Put your phone away and give each conversation your full attention.
9. Follow Up After the Fair
If you connect with an employer, don’t let the conversation end when you leave the fair. Follow up with a professional LinkedIn connection or email, thank them for their time, and reference something you discussed.
10. Set a Goal for Yourself
You don’t have to talk to every employer. Set a realistic goal that pushes you outside your comfort zone. For example: Talk to 5 employers, introduce yourself to 3 companies you researched, or learn about 2 opportunities you didn’t know existed.
