Career Fairs
Career fairs are a great opportunity to meet and engage with potential employers. Recruiters attend career fairs to discuss their organization, services, products, and employment needs. Before attending a career fair, research the organizations attending, choose professional dress, print copies of your updated resume, and prepare an elevator pitch. During the career fair, share your elevator pitch with recruiters, ask questions to the employers, and request their contact information to follow up. Send a thank you message and connect on LinkedIn after the career fair or connect with recruiters on LinkedIn within a few days of the career fair.
Career Fair Preparation
A career fair, also called a job fair, job expo, or career conference, is an event where recruiters are available to those who are interested in learning more about internships and jobs. it is a great opportunity to meet and network with potential employers. Representatives discuss organization, services, products, and employment needs.
Career Fair Tips
- Determine goals for attending the event (e.g., seeking a specific employment opportunity, networking about future positions, or learning about industries in a geographic area).
- Research organizations attending the career fair and review employers’ websites, social media, and additional news articles.
- Prepare and wear business professional dress to the career fair.
- Print and bring copies of your updated resume to give to employers.
- Prepare and utilize an elevator pitch that includes a short introduction of your education, skills, experiences, professional interests, and goals.
- Ask questions to the employer and request a business card to follow-up after the event.
- Reflect on the career fair after the event and take notes on interactions with employers.
- Write a thank you note or email and follow-up with prospective employers within 48 hours of the event. It serves the purpose of putting your name in front of the employer after the event and reminding the recruiter of your interest in the position and organization.