Why Attend a Job Fair?

The purpose of attending a job fair is to sell yourself to potential employers, investigate career options and build your professional network. It is also a convenient way to speak with multiple companies during a single visit.  

Tips for Attending a Job Fair

1. Dress and conduct yourself professionally. See Dress For Success.
2. Bring the following items with you:
   • Multiple copies of your résumé on professional résumé paper
   • Copies of your references
   • Portfolio folder with copies of your résumé, references, a pad of paper for notes and two pens
   • A cheat sheet with information for applications, including education (school names, addresses and phone numbers, programs of study, degrees earned, graduation dates and dates of attendance) and work history (names of employers including current employer, addresses, phone numbers, job titles and dates of employment) (tips on how to fill out an application)
3. Do not move around in a group of friends or classmates; approach employers on your own. This shows initiative and confidence.
4. As you approach an employer, introduce yourself, extending your hand for a shake and offering a resume.
5. Ask questions to show your interest and initiate a conversation.
6. Expect to get information on position openings, company history, salary expectations, industry growth and trends, and job requirements.
7. Ask if the employer would schedule an interview. If the company doesn’t have a current opening, you can ask for an informational interview.
8. Thank the employer before moving on.