Taking the first step towards your career goals is a big step to take. As you navigate your professional interests, consider these tips and tricks when attending career fairs, and applying to enFocus positions. We look forward to seeing you at a career fair near you!

Stop and reflect

When preparing for a career fair, first ask yourself, “What is my interest going into this experience?” Looking for a job goes beyond just needing one. You may find that career fairs are helpful in understanding a company’s culture, a company’s mission, and if you can see yourself thriving in the work environment. Maybe your intention is to research a variety of employers from similar industries, or skills they require to develop your professional portfolio.

  • Networking: You can build relationships with employers who specialize in your industry.
  • Job Openings: Recruiters can provide the inside scoop on open and upcoming positions.
  • Gain Valuable Advice: Recruiters can identify skills needed to succeed in your field and may suggest courses, training, or other ways to help you advance your career.
  • Interview Prep: Recruiters often ask basic interview questions at career fairs. By knowing how to answer these, you will be well prepared for complex interview questions in the future.
  • Personal Connection: Career fairs offer you a chance to make a lasting impression on employers by interacting with them personally—it is impossible to make this type of connection when submitting a resume.

Career fairs are your chance to speak directly with representatives of different employers. Don’t be afraid to explore your options, and what you truly want out of the experience.

It is also important how you reflect yourself publicly in your current position or role. Are you a student? Are you a full-time worker? Wherever you are in your career journey, ask yourself, “Does my digital footprint accurately reflect who I am and the work I do?” Consider updating your LinkedIn, Handshake account, and work portfolio prior to career fairs and employment opportunities.

Don’t forget that extra-curriculars, leadership initiatives, volunteer opportunities, and academic work can also be leveraged to showcase your capabilities and applicable real-world knowledge.

Do your research

Once you know what you are looking for, now you can do the work! Take some time to look up employers who will be attending the fair so you can plan what organizations you are interested in meeting, and try to get to them first. After that, stop by a few other booths that interest you.

Make sure your research fits your interests in a company. For example, if you are interested in a flexible company structure, how do their job descriptions support flexible work? Maybe they offer a hybrid work experience or flexible time off.  Doing your research helps you initiate conversations and opens the door for you to ask in-depth questions that will leave an impression on the employer.

Of course you cannot have all your questions answered at a single career fair, but if you are interested in a company, ask them how you can connect with them again, and follow-up. Consider following the company on social media, like the enFocus’ accounts on Facebook, LinkedIn, or Instagram!

Virtual fairs require you to set your schedule ahead of time. To make sure that you’re able to meet with the right organizations, see if you can register for sessions a month or so–or at least a few weeks–ahead of time. It leaves a positive impression on an organization if you come to a virtual career fair with applicable questions because you know you have had this meeting scheduled in advance.

Learning is a two way street

We understand that enFocus may not be the only company you will meet on the day of a career fair. That’s why it is important to learn about companies you may not have heard of before, too. Be ready to let companies explain their organizations for a few minutes when you visit different tables.

Although you will learn about a variety of employers throughout the duration of a career fair, employers are also there to learn about you. Have a small pitch that is unique to your career interests, what skills and strengths you have or want to learn, and what types of professions you are interested in pursuing. No need to have something rehearsed or memorized, but something you can say prepared and confident!

Many tables at a career fairs will accept resumes. Giving your resume can signify your interest and excitement to join their team, but it is important to ask the employer if you need to complete a resume or application online.

Consider how you present yourself to employers

Consider how you present yourself to employers. Dress code for career fairs typically range from business casual to professional dress. It is important to wear something that makes you feel both comfortable and confident. Anticipate extended time walking and standing throughout the event, you may want to opt for comfortable shoes that will give you the endurance you need to meet with all the organizations you plan to visit! If you need extra help, ask your career service office if they have clothing rentals or any other way they may be able to help.

You can also present yourself professionally in a quiet, well-lit space during virtual career fairs. Avoid speaking with organizations while walking or moving, and give your full attention to the employer at hand.

Be YOU!

It is always important to show respect to anyone you meet and interact with, but respect your personal interests, who you are, and what you value. Throughout your entire career search, make sure that you prioritize your safety, acceptance, and authenticity.

Take a deep breath and crush it

Not everyone is comfortable in a busy career fair environment. But take a deep breath, gather your courage, and go for it! Employers are looking forward to sharing their organization, and learning more about you.

Career fairs are not the only way you may meet potential employers, and there are always opportunities to put yourself out there. If you need a minute to collect yourself or take a break, that’s okay too! In the end, we hope that you advance your original intentions of attending the career fair.

We can’t wait to meet you!

In addition to our tips, you may also want to check out resources prepared by organizations like Handshake–an online platform that will host most of the virtual career fairs we will be attending. These fairs provide additional opportunities for you to meet with an enFocus representative one-on-one and/or join a group information session. Handshake has prepared a list of tips to help you make the most of a virtual fair. You can also use Handshake's online platform to learn more about enFocus and to find links to our applications.

Discover enFocus at a career fair near you!