Career fairs are pivotal events for students and job seekers to connect with potential employers, explore career opportunities, and even land internships or jobs. To make the most of these valuable events, being well-prepared is key. Knowing What To Take To A Career Fair can significantly enhance your experience and leave a lasting positive impression on recruiters. This guide outlines the essential items you should bring to ensure you are fully equipped for success.
Before the Career Fair: Preparation is Key
While technically “taking” things to the fair focuses on the day itself, proper preparation beforehand is crucial and determines what you’ll need to bring.
Research Employers
Knowing which companies will be present is the first step. Most career fairs provide a list of attending employers, often through platforms like Career Fair Plus. Dedicate time to research companies that align with your career interests. Understanding their work, culture, and available opportunities will allow for more meaningful conversations. Create a shortlist of your target employers to prioritize your time effectively at the fair.
Resume Perfection
Your resume is your professional introduction on paper. Ensure it is up-to-date, error-free, and highlights your skills and experiences relevant to your desired roles. Seek feedback from career services or mentors to refine your resume. Having a polished resume ready is non-negotiable for a career fair.
Craft Your Introduction
Prepare a concise and compelling introduction, often referred to as an elevator pitch. This is a brief (10-second) summary of who you are, your academic background, and your career aspirations. Practice articulating your introduction confidently. A strong introduction makes a memorable first impression and efficiently communicates your value to recruiters. For example: “I’m Alex Williams, a senior in civil engineering specializing in structures, graduating in December. I’m very interested in design positions within your Greensboro office.”
What to Bring to the Career Fair: Your Essential Items
On the day of the fair, these are the tangible items you should have with you:
Resumes (Physical Copies)
While digital applications are common, physical copies of your resume are still essential. Recruiters often prefer having a hard copy to quickly review and make notes on during conversations. Aim to bring at least 25 copies, printed on quality paper. Store them in a professional portfolio or folder to keep them crisp and presentable.
Portfolio or Folder
A professional portfolio or folder is crucial for carrying your resumes and any other important documents. It keeps your materials organized, prevents them from getting wrinkled or damaged, and projects an image of professionalism.
Pen and Paper
Despite the digital age, pen and paper remain invaluable. Use them to jot down notes after conversations with recruiters, record names, company details, and any action items discussed. These notes will be crucial for follow-up communication.
Employer Shortlist
Bring your prepared shortlist of target employers. This helps you stay focused and ensures you prioritize meeting with the companies you are most interested in. However, also be open to engaging with other employers you may discover at the fair – you might find unexpected opportunities.
Professional Attire
Your attire speaks volumes. Dress professionally to convey that you are serious about your career. For internships and co-op positions, business casual is generally appropriate. For new graduate roles and formal interview settings, traditional interview attire (suits) might be more suitable. When in doubt, err on the side of being slightly more dressed up than casual.
During the Career Fair: Making the Most of It
What you “take” in terms of actions and attitude is just as important as physical items:
Arrive Early & Check-in
Arriving early allows you to navigate the venue, check in without rush, and get a map of the fair. This gives you time to orient yourself before it gets crowded.
Observe and Learn
Take a few moments to observe how other students are interacting with employers. Notice seasoned students in action and learn from their approach.
Practice Your Introduction
If you feel nervous, start by practicing your introduction with employers who are lower on your priority list. This helps you build confidence and refine your delivery before approaching your top choices.
Engage with Employers
Approach employer booths with a smile, initiate a handshake, introduce yourself clearly, and offer your resume. Follow the recruiter’s cues and engage in conversation.
Ask Questions & Show Enthusiasm
Demonstrate genuine interest by asking thoughtful questions about the company, roles, and company culture. Enthusiasm is contagious and makes you more memorable.
Collect Business Cards & Take Notes
Always request a business card from recruiters you speak with. Immediately after each conversation, jot down a few key notes to remember specifics of the discussion.
After the Career Fair: Follow Up for Success
The career fair is not the end, but the beginning of the next phase:
Apply Online
Many employers will direct you to apply online through their company website or job portals like ePACK. Promptly follow these instructions.
Send Thank-You Notes
Within 24-48 hours, send personalized thank-you notes (email is acceptable) to recruiters you had meaningful conversations with. Reference specific points from your discussion to personalize your message and reiterate your interest. Attach your resume to the thank-you email for easy reference.
Follow Up
Stay organized with the business cards you collected. Follow up appropriately as per the recruiter’s instructions or timeline discussed. Persistence and timely follow-up are key in the job search process.
By taking the right steps in preparation and bringing the essential items, you’ll be well-positioned to navigate a career fair effectively, make valuable connections, and increase your chances of landing your desired career opportunity.
