Prepare for a Career Fair

 

Career Fair Preparation Guide

• Get ready!

  Weeks before the career fair, have your resume and LinkedIn profile reviewed by the Career Center. Make sure your resume highlights can be quickly scanned in 6–10 seconds.

• Research

  Stop by the Career Center during the week of the fair to obtain a list of attending employers. Research the companies and organizations on that list so that you can ask specific, relevant questions.

• Dress appropriately

  First impressions are of the utmost importance. Dress conservatively and professionally to communicate maturity and job readiness. If you want to browse a wide selection of professional clothing, visit the Career Center's Professional Wardrobe Closet where you can rent professional clothes. 

• Bring key items

  For the event, bring more resumes than you think you will need, a padfolio and pen. There is no need to bring your cellphone, a bulky bag or cover letters to a career fair.

• Maximize your time

  Come early and stay as late as possible. This is your chance to network with professionals and potentially score a job. Make this time a priority in your schedule.

• Work the room

  As you explore the career fair, try to visit every table. Network with employers that are not on your planned list. If there is a line at one employer, go on to the next and return when it is less crowded. Opportunities could exist in unexpected places!

• Introduce yourself

  Firmly shake the employer’s hand, make great eye contact and be prepared to answer the question, “Tell me about yourself.” Take 60-90 seconds to describe your education, experiences and personal background while aligning yourself to their company.

• Stay positive

  Whether you share about your background or past jobs, always present the information in a positive perspective and with a smile.

• Ask questions

  Be prepared with a few insightful questions to ask employers. This can demonstrate interest, enthusiasm and professionalism.

• Wrap it up

  As your conversation comes to a finish, offer a firm handshake and smile. Express your appreciation to the representative using their name and ask for their business card.

• Travel alone

  Employers are most impressed by the professionalism of a student when they are not traveling with others. Take the initiative to approach an employer booth confidently by yourself so that the conversation can thrive.

• Remain professional at all times

  Recruiters are constantly observing the crowd. Be confident and proactive about how you present yourself even when you think no one is looking.

• Follow up

  Within a day or two, send the employer a handwritten thank-you note or LinkedIn message. This is a courtesy that can leave a solid and lasting impression on an employer.

 

Professional Wardrobe Closet

If you’d like to know how to dress for a career fair, visit the Career Center's Professional Wardrobe Closet where you can borrow professional clothes.