Colleges across the nation are busy finalizing details to host a valuable career fairs for both students and employers. Many students wonder, how do job fairs work? I’ve been on the organizing end of career fairs, and it is one of the best times of the year. Students, to maximize success, it is essential to come prepared! When I am sitting at the registration table the day of these events, it is immediately evident to me which students have prepared ahead of time! Here are ten tips for career fairs and student success!
How do Job Fairs Work?
Before: Tips for Career Fairs
That’s right, the students who find the most success at career fairs are the ones who prepare before the event. If you missed my previous article, “Should I miss class for the college career fair?” be sure to read it. I cover some great tips to help you enter the career fair with the right mindset! Here are the five main steps you should take that relate to your success preparing for the career fair:
1. Make a list for yourself – Most colleges post a list of the employers that will be in attendance at the career fair on their website weeks (sometimes even a few months) in advance. Get online and make a list of the companies you are most interested in speaking with at the event. I recommend choosing about five to target during your time at the career fair.
2. Do your research – Once you have your list, research those companies. Read their website and blog if they have one. Next, familiarize yourself with their mission, products, and services. Knowing this information will help you make a great first impression and spend your time covering more important topics in the conversation. If you are hoping to secure a summer internship or your first full-time job, be sure to make special notes of any opportunities listed on company websites.
3. Write a list of questions and topics – As you are researching, write a few questions or topics you’d like to discuss with each of the companies on your list. Doing this will help you make a great impression and also help you avoid awkward lulls in conversation that can happen when networking at career fairs.
4. Apply for any internships or positions ahead of time – If a company is offering an internship or job that you are interested in, submit your application before the career fair. Then, you can use the conversation at the event to mention that you have applied online in hopes that the representative you speak with might pass along your resume or name to the hiring manager. It is appropriate to ask if you can leave a resume with the representative but avoid asking for a “good word” unless you have an existing relationship with the person you are speaking with. Let your impression and demeanor speak for itself. If you haven’t written or updated your resume, get help with it prior to the career fair!
5. Prepare an elevator pitch – An elevator pitch is a professional introduction. It is usually 30-60 seconds in length and gives a brief overview of who you are, what you have done (experience), what you are studying (education), and where you are heading (a professional goal). Remember, don’t memorize it word for word but rehearse it a few times so you can introduce yourself comfortably and confidently.
Day of the Event: Tips for Career Fairs
You’ve done the prep work and the day has come! If you are wondering, “How do job fairs work on the day of the event?” Here are some day-of tips:
6. Dress for success – Your appearance makes a difference! Iron your shirt, pants, and/or skirt and look sharp. Subtle make-up and fragrance are ok but don’t overdo it. When trying to choose between outfit options, always select the more conservative option. Finally, don’t forget to SMILE! A smile is an essential part of your “outfit” for the day.
7. Take a professional folder with paper and resumes – You’ll need a place to store your research notes and the questions you prepared prior to the career fair. I suggest a professional, black portfolio with paper inside and place to store business cards (see number nine below). You’ll also want to have ample copies of your resume, printed on nice resume paper, in the event you have the opportunity to present one to an employer.
8. Make a name tag – Next, be sure to stop at the registration desk and make a name tag. Write legibly! It goes on the left side of your chest (over your heart), so it is easily visible when you reach out and offer a firm, confident handshake. Why is this important? Because there are many people out there, I am one of them, who are terrible with names. Employers will talk to many students throughout the day. They will appreciate being able to glance down at your name tag for a quick reminder of your name. Plus, the more times they see your name, the more likely it is to stick!
9. Collect a business card at the end of the conversation – This is an important step! Always be building your network. I suggest collecting a business card from every person you talk to (if possible). In between your conversations, take a moment to pause and take a deep breath. Then, write a brief note on the back of the business card. This will remind you of where you met the person and one significant point from your conversation. If someone you speak with is out of cards or doesn’t have one, ask if you may take their email address or connect with them on LinkedIn. Many students who ask me, “how do job fairs work?” don’t follow through with this step, and it is a very, very important one!
After the Event: Tips for Career Fairs
10. Send a thank you, follow-up card/email – Finally, there is one very important step that I bet 95 percent of your peers won’t do. A follow-up/thank you card is another way to set yourself apart! One to two days after the event, send either a hand-written thank you note or email to each person you spoke with. Thank them for their time and perspective. This is where those business cards with the notes on the back come in handy! Personalize the thank you message with the one significant point from the conversation. This will help them recall who you are, remember that they potentially spoke with hundreds of students, and ensure you make a lasting impression.
Phew. That’s a lot more than just showing up to the career fair for an hour and walking around chatting with representatives, isn’t it? Yes, it definitely is. However, if you take the time to follow these tips for career fairs, I know you’ll make a great impression on the companies at the event and feel confident in your networking abilities. Remember, no time spent networking is ever wasted! Best of luck! If you follow for these tips for career fairs, you’re sure to make an excellent impression! And, now, you can help others when they ask “how do job fairs work?”
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