Career Fairs are a helpful, efficient opportunity to meet with a variety of employers hiring in your major. Asking good questions is the best way to make a good impression on employers and get the information you need!
In general, ask open-ended, subjective questions—don’t ask for data or hard facts that you can find easily on the website. For example, “How many people work at your company?” is a question you should research ahead of time, not ask at the fair.
Always try to greet an employer with a warm smile, eye contact, and a handshake (if a hand is offered), and after you ask your questions, show genuine interest in their response.
You don’t need to ask all the questions shown below. Start with one—any one of these—and see how the conversation flows! Be cognizant of how many people may be behind you in line–take your time, but don’t monopolize the employer.
Most importantly, always thank the employer for their time when you are done! Ask for a business card, and if you had a great conversation, email them and say thank you for their time and the information.
Possible questions for employer representatives at career fairs:
- What first attracted you to the company?
- What is the best part of working at X Company?
- What training is there for new employees (or interns if you are applying for an internship)?
- What would a typical day look like for this role?
- What are the top qualities you are looking for in applicants for this job?
- What jobs do you routinely have for someone with my major/skill set/interests?
