10 Tips on How to Impress at a Career Fair

Last week, I attended the career fair and I was able to get 28 business cards and learn a lot from the recruiters. Below are tips on how you can stand out the next time you attend a career fair.

1.) Have a good handshake

This is the first impression that the recruiters get. A stronger handshake will show that you have confidence.

2.) Make eye contact and smile

3.) Be Confident with energy

Remember you’re trying to sell yourself when you go to the Career Fair. Show that you’re confident in your abilities. Give them a reason to hire you.

4.) Show interest in the person.

This can make a big difference. Sometimes you don’t know what the other person is going through; the least you can do is ask how the person is doing. Ask questions about the recruiter and get them to talk. Many recruiters spend time explaining the same information over and over.

5.) Research the company

Recruiters have told me that they prefer when people have knowledge about their company. This puts you a step ahead of students who don’t. Many recruiters spend a lot of time explaining their company. If you know about them, they will think that you care for the company. In fact, you can even do a quick Google check before you speak with them. Having some knowledge is better than none.

6.) Prepare questions to ask

One great question to ask is seeing what type of person the company is looking for. Once they identify their issue, mention how you would be a good candidate based off of their answer.

7.) Follow up

After you speak with a recruiter, and they show genuine interest, ask to see if you can follow up with them. When you follow up, do it the following day and remind them who you are. This way you’re fresh in their mind. See if you can do anything to start the job process

8.) Get a coffee chat with someone from the company prior to the career fair

Many times, employers are willing to meet with students interested and give them their wisdom. Make sure you take mental notes.

9.) Utilize the Career Services

Have someone from Career Service polish your resume and give you feedback. Do your best to perfect it, as it’s the only information that recruiters bring back with them.

10.) Stay Strong

Sometimes you may not hear back from the company, but that doesn’t mean you should give up. There’s always something that you can do to stand out. Remember that the job market is competitive. You have to give companies a reason to give you a chance.

Best of luck and let me know if these tips are helpful!