During the event:

The big day is finally here - the career fair! Before you walk into the lions den (with all the other eager students and serious recruiters), you need to have a plan and follow our tips below:

Arrive early –

By coming early, you can register without lines and have first priority on the companies that you are most interested in. Typically, shows become more crowded and chaotic as the day goes on. Don’t waste your time in standing in lines. When you see the employers you want to meet first before the crowds, you can even give yourself the chance to come by again at the end to ask any additional questions.

Being early also allows you to return in the afternoon to any employers you’ve spoken to earlier ask any additional questions.

Come prepared –

Dress nicely and formally, such as a suit and tie, and always wearing comfortable shoes since you will be on your feet all day standing and moving around. Bring plenty of clean resumes in a portfolio or brief case. This is also handy for collecting any informational flyers, business cards, pens, and others goodies, you may acquire doing the show.

Have the perfect introduction –

When you approach employers, don’t fall into the robot trap. All too often, students sound like pre-rehearsed and scripted machines. Add a little personality and just be yourself. Employers are looking for people so practice your talking points from before and be genuine and friendly.

Be outgoing and assertive –

Make the first move and don’t be shy! Always start off with an introduction and a handshake. Recruiters are there to meet you and want to talk. Walk up to employers and start the conversation. Show the initiative.

Think of questions –

By asking questions, ranging from about the company to more details about internships, you get real answers and it demonstrates interest. Don’t be generic and don’t ask things that are overly obvious or are easily found on the website. For some ideas, check out the interview section for questions to ask employers.

Have fun but be serious

The career fair is all about making a great first impression. Since you have limited time and you are there with a purpose, it is important to take the event seriously. Move around smartly, prioritize employers that interest you, and enjoy this great networking experience.

It’s all about networking –

The entire focus of the career fair is to network. Talk to everyone and use conversation to meet likeminded students, employers, and career development staff. While waiting in lines to register or talk to specific companies, chat with other students. Ask questions about their search, any successes they are having, and career ideas and resources in general. Sharing with your fellow attendees is a great way to stay fresh, learn a little, and even make a new contact.

Don’t be nervous –

If this is your first career event or time talking with recruiters, just be yourself and relax. Everyone is there for the same reason – to find and meet new people. Start with smaller companies to build up your confidence and gain basic networking experience. 

Be open to new possibilities –

Who knows, maybe you’ll talk to a company or discover an industry that you had not previously considered. Approach companies that are interesting to you and explore any alternative internships or opportunities that may be present at the career fair.

Always want more –

After a good conversation with an employer, always ask for the next step. If you’re serious interested, let them know! Find out the appropriate steps necessary to apply and interview with the company. Leave a copy of your resume and try to get some contact information to the person you spoke with or the company’s recruiting department.