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Career Fair Preparation Guide

Making the Most of Your Career Fair Experience

Before the Fair

Research Employers

  • Review the list of attending organizations (these are listed in the Fairs section on Handshake).
  • Identify which employers align with your career goals.
  • Prepare thoughtful questions to ask at each table.

Prepare Your Resume

  • Keep it to one page with a clean, professional format.
  • Print on quality paper and carry copies in a padfolio or folder.
  • Include a professional summary with your student status, career interests, and relevant skills for your industry.

Use the WHO Method to describe experiences in your bullet points:

  • What did you do?
  • How did you do it?
  • What was the outcome?

Craft Your Elevator Pitch

An elevator pitch is a brief, confident introduction about 30 – 60 seconds in length to help you quickly communicate who you are and what you’re seeking; this is essential for making a strong first impression and starting meaningful conversations at a career fair with employers.

It typically includes:

  • Your name and major
  • Career interests
  • A unique detail or skill
  • What you’re seeking (internship, interview, job shadow, etc.)
  • Keep it conversational, confident, and polite.

Dress and Act Professionally

  • Business casual or professional attire is recommended.
  • Avoid distractions like excessive accessories or phone use.
  • If you need to take care of personal business, make calls, or research company information on your phone, step outside the room or area to do so.

At the Fair

Be Strategic

  • Visit both popular and less crowded tables.
  • Avoid using your phone while waiting in line.
  • Relax and be authentic.
  • Be considerate of others, and don’t monopolize time with employers.
  • Listen discreetly to relevant conversations you hear in your proximity.

Engage Effectively

  • Make eye contact and offer a confident handshake.
  • Use your elevator pitch to start the conversation.
  • Ask informed questions and listen actively.
  • Offer your resume and ask for a business card.

Be Respectful

  • Avoid taking merchandise or participating in giveaways without engaging.
  • Show genuine interest in the company and role.

After the Fair

Take Notes

Immediately jot down who you spoke with and any next steps.

Follow Up

  • Send a thank-you email within 48 hours.
  • Connect on LinkedIn and reference your conversation.
  • Prepare for potential interviews.

Interview Preparation

If you’re invited to a same-day or future interview, practice common behavioral questions using STAR-K or PARK methods:

STAR-K

  • Situation
  • Task
  • Action
  • Result
  • Knowledge gained

PARK

  • Problem
  • Action
  • Result
  • Knowledge gained
)