These are the things you can do to succeed at a careers fair. Here are some tips that will make you standout at an information session, booth or employer-student conversation room. Don't be afraid to dress up, make a good impression, and avoid crowds.
Dress professionally
You should dress professionally if attending a jobs fair. For men, this means wearing a suit or sport coat with a dress shirt. For women, a nice blouse or sweater will be appropriate. Both should be clean and pressed. You can wear a small amount of jewelry.
Before you go to the careers fair, take the time to research the company. Research the company to find out about their culture and workplace. A few flyers and giveaways may be sent to you by the company, so make sure you have somewhere to store them. A professional look is essential, as you will be interviewing multiple people.
Prepare a 30-second pitch
You can meet with recruiters at companies that are hiring when you attend a career fair. Make sure to prepare your elevator pitch and bring your resume. A list of questions you'd like to ask the recruiter can be created. This will allow you to feel more confident and prepare you for any possible questions.
A good elevator pitch should include at least two to three key points. They should highlight your abilities, professional goals, and previous experiences. It should be tailored to each individual company and role.
Be courteous
Being at a careers fair can seem intimidating. Therefore, be polite and be friendly with potential employers. It is also a good idea to research the company before you go. You will be able to create a more engaging resume by doing research and leave a lasting impression on potential employers. Being polite and maintaining eye contact is a good habit. If you don't have the ability to shake hands with someone, you can simply nod your head and wave a quick wave.
Interviewing with employers requires that you prepare for a brief introduction. Keep your resume and CV handy and be prepared to discuss your interests, academic achievements, and extracurricular abilities. After the interview, be polite and thank the employer for their time. Keep your questions brief and ask for clarification later.
Avoid the crowds
It can be stressful to attend career fairs. However, there are ways around it. Avoid crowds at the fair. You should first wear something lightweight and comfortable. Leave your coat at home, and wear comfortable shoes that you won't mind walking around in. Remember to keep hydrated. Also, make sure to bring snacks or small beverages. These snacks can give you energy and can also help you avoid becoming dehydrated or hungry.
Next, choose your device carefully. It is preferable to use a laptop, desktop or tablet instead of a propped down tablet. For your hearing protection, use headphones if attending a virtual careers fair. And don't forget to make eye contact with recruiters. They'll remember you when a job opening comes up.
Introduce yourself
It's important to introduce oneself at a careers fair. This is your first chance to make a good impression. Make sure to be well prepared with your elevator pitch, academic and extracurricular achievements, and career interests. After you have introduced yourself, be sure to thank them for their time.
Make sure to bring several copies of your resume and a portfolio of your best work. Be professional but casual. Avoid looking at your phone while you are walking. Introduce yourself to recruiters by mentioning your previous work experience and emphasize why they should hire you.