Planning to attend a career fair?
Nervous? It’s normal. Having to meet recruiters who may ask you questions you don’t know the answers to completely can be intimidating. What’s the appropriate way to speak and connect with others that seems genuine and mutually beneficial? Find out by following the tips below and connect with a career advisor to discuss your plan.
Research Companies
Find the list of companies that will be attending the fair by checking the organizer’s website. For BSU career fairs, check Handshake for the list of participating organizations. Then research individual companies of interest to you. Resources such as Glassdoor.com are an excellent resource to gain valuable information. In addition, Handshake’s employers page can provide additional material in your search to find a good fit for you and your career goals. Check out companies’ hiring pages to see the roles available and analyze what exactly the responsibilities of the positions are. If you possess the qualifications listed, make sure to articulate that when meeting recruiters. If lacking in certain areas, ask what skills and experiences are desired to give you the desired qualifications.
Develop Questions
Prepare specific questions for each company that show your knowledge about the organization. This type of directed questioning can help distinguish you from other applicants that are merely looking to gain initial information about the company’s position offerings. Your research into the company will provide the basis for your thoughtful questions. Since the recruiters have to meet hundreds of job and internship seekers, having a clear purpose and intention with your statements will help you to be remembered.
Create an elevator pitch
Develop a short statement, 30 seconds to 2 minutes, about who you are that sets you apart from other candidates. Mention specific details that led you to want to work for the company and how it relates to your career goals. Remember, a relationship goes both ways, and it’s important to see the connections as beneficial to each party. It is key that you practice your elevator pitch before the fair to allow yourself to become comfortable delivering it without it seeming rehearsed.
Arrive prepared
With a large number of companies attending a fair, your best strategy is to target a specific set of companies to maximize your time. Make sure to have enough copies of your resume as well as a pen and pad to take down important notes when speaking to company representatives. Make sure all social media profiles, such as LinkedIn, Facebook, TikTok, and Instagram are appropriately managed since recruiters will check them. Also, unless it is indicated differently on the organizer’s website, it is imperative that you dress in a business suit or appropriate work attire to showcase your professionalism when attending the fair.
Follow Up
Collect business cards or contact information from the recruiters that you speak to thank them for their time in a prompt manner. In addition, you can inquire about open positions that may not have been discussed during the fair.
Upcoming Career Fairs
MEGA Job & Internship Fair
Thursday, April 3, 2025 | 12:00 – 3:00 pm
Tinsley Athletic Center
Registration for the event opens in mid-January 2025.
The MEGA Job & Internship Fair is a great way for employers and students to meet and discuss full-time professional-level opportunities as well as internships available in the region. A variety of organizations will be in attendance considering multiple majors at the undergraduate and graduate levels.
Don’t miss this opportunity to network with over 120 employers in a variety of industries!
Education Career Fair
Wednesday, May 7, 2025 | 4:00 – 6:00 pm
RSU Ballroom
Registration for this event will open in mid-January 2025.
Network with principals, superintendents, and hiring managers from 65+ public school districts, charter schools, independent schools, and educational non-profit organizations! Opportunities will be available in teaching, administration, counseling, social work, speech, ABA, and more for part-time and full-time roles available in the 2025-2026 school year. As one of the largest Education Career Fairs in the state, this is a can’t-miss event!
Information for Students:
Prepare Your Resume Using our Resume Writing Guide
Read our packet Job Fair Preparation Guide
Schedule an appointment with us to have your resume reviewed.
Wear Professional Attire! Utilize the Bear Essentials Closet for free professional clothing. Visit RSU 104 to check it out!
Information for Faculty:
Attend both fairs and networking with employers, bring your classes and inform your advisees as well as consider offering extra credit to those that participate.
All faculty and staff have a Handshake student account setup for them so you can show advisees information and resources. Your username is your full email address and corresponding password.
