Students and Alumni

Make the Job Fair Work for You!

In today's competitive job market, more and more employers are using job fairs to promote their job openings and recruit bright, new employees. Here are some tips to make the job fair work to your advantage:

Your "Job" at the Job Fair:

• Meet company representatives and market yourself as a potential employee.
• Stand out in the crowd.
• Get information about interesting companies, their job opportunities, and the hiring process. Set-up interviews when possible.
• Network for additional job leads and contacts.

Before You Go:

• Look over the list of companies attending ahead of time and research those that interest you most (i.e. visit company's web site, know primary products/function of the company, know the majors they hire, read about current events/projects, and be aware of future trends).
• Prepare a 30-second summary of your qualifications to use when introducing yourself to employers. Job fairs offer brief contact with recruiters, so be prepared to make the most of your time. Work up an interesting verbal summary of your background, achievements, and career interests.
• Know your major and grade point average (GPA).
• Get your resume ready! Print extra copies of your polished and professional resume on quality resume paper to hand out to employers. Be sure to bring a pen and notepad to take notes.
• Anticipate interviewing questions and practice your responses. Be prepared to answer the following questions: where do you want to work, why did you visit our booth today, why should we interview you, what type of work are you looking for, when do you graduate, and/or what is your grade point average (GPA).
• Put together a list of questions you want to ask employers.
• Practice how you want to present yourself to recruiters.

During the Job Fair:

• Convey interest, enthusiasm, and confidence. Smile!
• Greet each employer with a firm handshake, use good eye contact, ask for a business card, and inquire about the application process.  
• Introduce yourself and show the knowledge you have of the organization in your 30-second sales pitch.
• Give employers a copy of your resume.
• Make notes on the back of business cards or the notepad you brought with you (i.e. name of the representative you visited with).
• Pick up literature and business cards.
• Travel alone. Don't visit tables with a group of friends, family, etc.

After the Job Fair:

• Follow-up with an email or letter to say thank you. Include another resume and supporting materials, if requested.
• Follow-up with any agreements you made (i.e. follow-up phone call, email, or company visit/interview appointment).