Attending a career fair can be a great way to explore different job opportunities and make valuable connections for your future. To fully benefit from the experience, it’s important to be prepared. Here are some tips on what to bring and do to get the most out of a career fair.
Bring the essentials
- Several copies of your resume – Make sure your resume is tailored to the type of job or industry you’re interested in. Print out multiple copies so you’re prepared to hand out your resume to potential employers
- Notepad and pen – Take notes during conversations with potential employers. This will help you remember key points and remember which companies you talked to
- A padfolio/folder – You’ll need something to carry all your materials in. A folder or portfolio of some sort is slim, can carry your resume and can also be used to carry any materials that employers give you as you speak with them
Do your research
- Research the companies attending the career fair. Become familiar with the type of jobs they offer and the qualifications they’re looking for. This will help you decide which companies you’d like to talk to and make a good impression
- Prepare a few questions to ask potential employers. This will show them you’re prepared and interested in their company
- Have a “30 second elevator pitch” prepared. This should be a brief summary of your skills and qualifications and potentially what type of interests you may have in terms of career path
Dress for success
- Wear professional clothing that’s appropriate for the job you’re interested in, we recommend dressing 1 level above what you would normally wear to that job if you were to get it!
- Make sure your clothes are clean and wrinkle-free
- Wear comfortable shoes that you can stand and walk in for several hours, but probably not busted up sneakers!
If you follow these tips and come prepared, you’ll be sure to have a successful and rewarding experience at the career fair. Good luck!
Reminder: The Career and Advising Center is happy to help you prepare, from helping you borrow clothes from our career closet, to helping you work on your resume, we are here to help! See helpful resources below, along with the many other blogs on our website that have helpful advice!
Resume Examples: https://career-advising.ndsu.edu/resume-examples/
Career Closet: https://career-advising.ndsu.edu/dress-to-impress/
