On the day itself, follow these tips to ensure you get the most out of the Careers Fair.
Top tips
- Note the names of any contacts you make on the day.
- Think about your strengths and skills and be able to tell an employer what you have to offer.
- Consider what questions you want to ask them: What vacancies do they have? What are their requirements? What training opportunities do they provide?
- Be sure to contact the less well-known organisations as they often have very challenging opportunities to offer.
Here's some more pointers:
Bring copies of your CV
Get feedback beforehand from our CV clinic, and know which employers will accept your CV on the day.
Consider if you want to give employers the same CV or tailor some to fit your top preferences.
Come prepared
You can review the exhibitors beforehand. If you spend a little time getting some background on an organisation, then you can ask very focused and specific questions.
Refine
This should be a chance to refine the understanding you have from your research, not initiating every conversation with 'what do you do?' or asking questions you can find the answer to online.
Dress appropriately
First impressions are important.
Go it alone
If you’re going with a group of friends, split up instead of cruising around together.
This is your opportunity and you need to listen to all the conversations around you and maybe implement what you hear
Time management
Allow yourself adequate time. Come as early as possible. You may need to return between classes. Typically, fairs are busiest during the lunch hour.
Get your bearings
When you arrive, take a few minutes to review the map and directory for the fair.
Prioritise
Focus on employers you’re attracted to. If possible, start with less appealing ones to refine your approach, ensuring confidence when approaching those you’re most interested in.
Pitch perfect
Introduce yourself, deliver your career pitch, with a firm handshake, fresh breath, a smile, eye contact, showing personality, and asking open questions.
Ask for contact details
It is important to keep note of the company contact name for future reference.
Listen
Listen to the recruiter carefully and thank them for their time.
Follow up
On email or LinkedIn and reference the fact that you spoke to them at the fair - do this sooner rather than later.
Bring water
It can be a long day.