How to Approach Prospective Employers at Job Fairs

Step-by-Step Guide

1. 1

   Step 1: Pre-register for the fair Register ahead of time so you can get a list of all prospective employers that will be in attendance.

   Make a list of the top 5 or 10 employers you want to meet with in order of importance.
   
   On the day of the job fair, follow your list and stay focused.
   
   This strategy will help you maximize your time and keep from getting distracted.
2. 2

   Step 2: Be prepared to answer questions Approach potential employers with the key information they need to know about you in order to consider you a worthwhile candidate for employment at their company.

   This information could include your job history, experience in the field, GPA and educational background.
   
   Staying focused on the most important information will help you make the best impression on potential employers. , This will make you look distracted and unprofessional. , This will help you feel and look confident and prepared. , Only give resumes to company representatives you've met with.
   
   They're the ones that will remember you and consider you for employment. , Get there early to beat the crowds and to increase your chances of company representatives remembering your name and resume. ,, Dress professionally or at least wear so-called "business casual" attire.
   
   Iron your clothes, shave and make sure your appearance is organized, neat and clean. , This will keep your interview and resume fresh in their minds.
3. 3

   Step 3: Eliminate fidgeting Avoid chewing gum

4. 4

   Step 4: rocking back and forth

5. 5

   Step 5: fidgeting or shuffling your paperwork when speaking to prospective employers during a job fair interview.

6. 6

   Step 6: Make eye contact Address each company representative by name

7. 7

   Step 7: shake their hands and look them in the eyes when speaking to them.

8. 8

   Step 8: Bring enough resumes Take multiple copies of your current

9. 9

   Step 9: updated resume with you to the job expo so you have one for each prospective employer you meet.

10. 10

    Step 10: Arrive early The attention spans of potential employers will grow shorter as the job fair goes on.

11. 11

    Step 11: Ask the right questions Instead of asking what the company does

12. 12

    Step 12: which will make you appear uninformed

13. 13

    Step 13: ask specific questions about the company's structure

14. 14

    Step 14: the nature of the specific position you're interested in

15. 15

    Step 15: and ongoing training or advancement opportunities.

16. 16

    Step 16: Dress for success First impressions mean a lot at job fairs

17. 17

    Step 17: so look your best.

18. 18

    Step 18: Take a business card and follow up Take a business card from each booth where you leave a resume and follow up with the representative a few days later.

Detailed Guide

About the Author