Working a Career Fair for the Best Results

Career Fairs can be a great source of information and help you make some major decisions.

Companies host booths so that they can meet with potential employees. They bring materials about their company and information on the benefits of joining their firm.
They will have representatives available to briefly talk with attendees and to exchange information on the next steps involved in their interviewing process.

If you have an idea of what career or industry you want to join after graduation, then use career fairs to find out more information such as what companies are hiring, average starting salaries, required skills, training programs and growth opportunities.

Tips on making a career fair a more productive experience:
• Find out in advance what companies will be there
• Select which companies you definitely want to see so you can plan your time to stop by each booth
• Allow time to work the room and see all companies
• Have prepared questions to ask at each booth so that you can gain a better idea on whether this may be something you would have the skills to do and would enjoy doing – take notes (don’t forget a pen and paper!!!)
• Don’t work the room in a group – think about what YOU want
• Take clean copies of your resumes
• Find out in advance what dress is appropriate
• When meeting with a recruiter, have a firm handshake and look them in the eye
• Thank them for their time

If you DON’T know what you want to do after college, then career fairs may be even more beneficial for you. This is a great way to research different industries, companies and positions. Don’t be afraid to admit to recruiters if you are unsure of what you want to do for a career. This is the place to gain information! Let them know what skills you have and what careers you have been considering. You may find that the recruiter can help you narrow down your search.

Career fairs are a great way to research, practice networking and to hone in on an ideal job!