A Job Seeker’s 5 Step Process for Preparing for a Job Fair

If you’re looking for a job this spring or summer, you might be checking out some new avenues to find work. As a job seeker, you’ve probably tried sending resumes to employers and applying to jobs via job boards. What else can you do?

One solution could be to attend a job fair.

Job fairs are common, especially during peak hiring seasons. Employers and recruiters seeking seasonal employees often attend these events throughout the spring. You can find events geared for certain geographical areas, specific fields, or even a single employer.

If you’re planning to attend a job fair, you’ll want to be prepared. This five step process will help you be ready long before you set foot on the fair floor.

1. Conduct Research

The very first step in your preparation process should be to do some research. Before you register or decide to attend any job fair, you’ll want to see who else is going to attend.

Research which employers and recruitment firms are going to be present. Are there employers you’re particularly interested in working with? Do the staffing firms place people in your field of expertise?

From this research, create a list of booths you want to visit. You can divide the list by priority, crafting lists of “must visit” employers and secondary choices.

2. Prepare Your Pitch

Arrive at the fair with multiple copies of your resume or business cards that you can hand out. If it’s possible, you’ll want to hand a copy of your resume to every company you want to work with.

You should also have an elevator pitch lined up for prospective employers and recruiters. Be ready to answer some interview questions, as some interested employers might decide to give you a miniature interview on the job fair floor.

Be prepared to ask questions as well. Once you’ve researched the companies you’re interested in, you’ll have the background to ask targeted questions that demonstrate your knowledge.

3. Dress for Success

On the day of the job fair, you’ll want to dress appropriately. You should treat the job fair like a job interview. You don’t want to dress up too much, but your attire should be professional and business appropriate.

Don’t forget that body language is also part of your appearance. Practice shaking hands, making eye contact, and even how you’ll gesture during your pitch. Make sure you have the right attitude too.

4. Strategize on the Job Fair Floor

Some job fairs are large, and you may not be able to visit every company you want to speak with. There may also be lines at some booths.

This is where having an “A list” of must visit employers and a “B list” is strategic. Prioritize those names on you’re a list, but don’t waste time waiting in long lines to see them. Instead, circulate to some of the other employers who may be less busy. Try to visit booths at slower times, when you won’t have to wait in line and the recruiters will likely be able to give you more of their time.

5. Collect Information

A job seeker like you might see the job fair as a way to get your information into the hands of recruiters. It’s also a place where you can collect more information.

When you ask questions, be sure to take notes. If you can, ask for the recruiter’s card. Be respectful of an employer’s company literature. While most of it is there to be given away, always ask before you take off with a sample or brochure.

Being polite and respectful will help you on the job fair floor. With these tips in mind, you’ll be prepared for job fair success.