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Career Fair Prep Checklist

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Career Fair Checklist

How to Prepare for the Career Fair

  • Find out which companies are attending and the roles for which they will be recruiting
  • Make a list of the companies that interest you. Check with the Center for Career Development Website or ask your counselor
  • Check the company’s website and Handshake to see if there are current job/internship postings.
  • Research the companies in which you are interested so you can tailor your professional pitch to them
    • Your level of research should be the same as if you were going to interview with them
  • See if you are connected through LinkedIn to individuals in these companies
  • Prepare questions to ask the recruiter based on your research
  • Draft your 30-second pitch and review it with your career counselor
  • Proofread your resume for grammar, spelling, etc.
  • Make copies of your resume on good resume paper to stand out (not computer paper)
  • Carry a portfolio to hold your documents including resume, business cards, etc.
    • Be sure to have a notepad and pen
  • Make sure you have proper Career Fair attire; should be the same as if you were going on an interview (professional attire)


Day of the Career Fair

  • Get to the fair early to check room set up and plan how to work the room
  • Smile and be engaging!  Shake hands, make eye contact and state your full name
  • It is important to tailor your communication for each company and to connect with the recruiter
    • 30-second Pitch!
  • Ask questions including next steps in the hiring process
  • Network with students and pick up brochures while waiting on line
  • Listen and observe how others engage with recruiters to inform/personalize your own approach
  • Be aware that recruiters have a limited amount of time
  • Ask for the recruiter’s card after the interaction and be sure to leave a copy of your resume
  • Make notes to remember information for your follow-up e-mail/letter
  • Talk with recruiters at a variety of companies, even if they don’t have immediate openings in your field
  • Remember to take your professional headshot at the LinkedIn photo booth


After the Career Fair

  • Follow-up within 24 hours with a personalized thank you note by email.
    • Don’t send a standard thank you to everyone.  Include your interest in each particular firm and remind them of details you discussed in the conversation
  • Complete on line applications for those companies who require/asked you to do so
  • Make an appointment with your counselor to discuss your career fair experience, draft a thank-you note, and/or share your questions or concerns