Now that we’re back to in-person career fairs, we’ve recently had the pleasure of attending a few. While there is some grace to be given as we’re all a bit rusty with our in-person skills… we thought we’d drop some helpful hints to help you ace your next career fair.

Doing well at a career fair takes some practice, but it also takes a lot of planning. A couple of things to help improve your chances of success include... Setting Realistic GoalsNot all events are the right events. Choose events that are meaningful to your profession (potential employers, industry relatedness, etc). Choose events that allow you to spend your time in the most efficient and effective manner possible. A specific goal may be to hand out as many resumes as you can (a goal you should seriously reconsider). Another goal may be to visit as many booths as you can. Yet, another goal may be to collect business cards from each and every attendee. Consider this realistic goal – meet and obtain information to generate an interview or follow-up conversation from 7 – 10 potential employers.

Knowing Your TargetDo your homework beforehand and learn a little something about each of the companies you would really like to visit with. Demonstrating your ability to research and talk coherently about company goals and values will speak volumes to a potential employer. Make a Good ImpressionWe’ve said it a million times – if you’re on the job search your attire should say, “hire.” No matter the industry, your clothing should be clean, stain-free, tear-free, and pressed.

Beginning to Build a RelationshipAs Steven Covey said, Seek First to Understand and Then to be Understood. Listen to everyone; really hear what they have to say. Listening first is so much more important than you saying “I need a job.” And, it’s kind of a given, if you are in front of the table you are looking for work versus the people behind the table who are working. While you are standing in-line to speak with a potential employer listen to the other conversations going on.

You have the opportunity to learn from others who will be less prepared than you.

Following-upYou may be super fortunate and hired on-the-spot, but more than likely you will need to follow-up after a career fair. When you do, remember the ABC's. Be Accurate with your details, be Brief with your explanation and be Courteous to whoever answers the phone.