May 31st 2023

How to stand out at careers fairs

Welcome, jobseekers, to the world of careers fairs! These bustling events bring together eager candidates like you with a multitude of potential employers under one roof. It’s an opportunity to make meaningful connections, learn about exciting job prospects, and stand out from the competition. But how can you ensure that you make the most of this experience? In this article, we’ll provide you with valuable tips and tricks on how to shine brightly at careers fairs. 

Finding out who’s who 

Before attending a careers fair, it’s important to research and familiarise yourself with the list of confirmed employers who will be present. In most cases, you can find this information beforehand, but if it’s not readily available, don’t hesitate to reach out to the careers fair organiser(s) and request a list. Once you have the list, take some time to identify the employers that pique your interest. Dive deeper and conduct research on each company, seeking out key information such as:

• What do they do? 
• Why did they start the company? i.e. What’s their mission? 
• What types of roles are they hiring for? 
• What are their values? 

A useful tip is to search for the company on LinkedIn, as it can provide insights into their promotional messaging. Additionally, if specific representatives from a company are attending the fair, it’s worth checking out their LinkedIn profiles to gather relevant details about their roles and their time at the company, which can help shape the questions you plan to ask them.

Update your LinkedIn 

Your LinkedIn profile serves as an online CV and can be a powerful tool for showcasing your professional experience and education history. It’s crucial to ensure that all the information on your profile is up to date. Take the time to update your work experience, educational achievements, and any relevant certifications or skills. Additionally, pay attention to your skills section and make sure it accurately reflects your current skill set. A well-maintained LinkedIn profile can leave a lasting impression on employers and provide them with valuable insights into your qualifications.

Dress for Success

While you don’t have to dress in black tie event attire, presenting yourself smartly can create a positive and memorable impression on potential employers. When it comes to dressing for a careers fair, it’s essential to strike a balance between showcasing your personal style and adhering to professional standards. 

To ensure you’re dressed appropriately, it can be helpful to research examples of appropriate attire online or observe the dress codes in similar industries. This can give you a sense of what is considered acceptable and expected. While each industry and company may have its own unique dress culture, there are some general guidelines to keep in mind. Opt for clean, wrinkle-free clothing that fits well and makes you feel confident. A neat business casual look is often a safe choice, combining comfortable yet professional clothing items.

Focus on your goal 

Careers fairs are full of shiny goodies and freebies as employers want to encourage people to come up to their stand. Whilst freebies are great, try not to get distracted by these! You’re at the careers fair for a reason – to look for a new role.

It might help to create a list of 3-5 companies that you want to speak to and focus on having conversations with the employers at these stands. 

Make connections

One of the primary objectives of attending a careers fair is to make meaningful connections (and we don’t just mean those on LinkedIn!). 

Approach employers with confidence and engage in conversations. This may seem daunting but you can start by introducing yourself. Be sure to ask thoughtful questions about the company, its culture, and the available opportunities. For example: 

• Do they have any tips on the application process? 
• What do they like about working at company X? 
• Where does Company X see itself in a year’s time? 

Remember, networking is a two-way street, so be attentive and actively listen to the employer’s responses. Networking can open doors to future opportunities and create lasting relationships in the industry.

Master the art of follow-up connections 

It’s important to take the initiative and follow up with the employers you interacted with. Sending a personalised follow-up message can leave a lasting impression and demonstrate your genuine interest in their company and available opportunities. 

Start by expressing your gratitude for the conversation you had at the fair, highlighting specific points of discussion that resonated with you. Reference any notable insights or valuable advice they provided, showcasing that you were actively engaged during the conversation. Additionally, if there were any action items or next steps discussed, make sure to acknowledge and reiterate your commitment to them. 

This follow-up message is an excellent opportunity to reinforce your qualifications and express your enthusiasm for the possibility of joining their team. Be concise, professional, and courteous in your communication. Lastly, remember to proofread your message carefully before hitting the send button (don’t want any pesky typos ruining the message).  

And there you have it! Armed with these tips and tricks, you’re ready to conquer careers fairs like a pro. Remember, preparation is key. So go forth with confidence, make your mark, and let your bright future unfold. Best of luck for your next careers fair! 

Psst… You can find exciting new roles on Tempo 👀