Genesis10 attends career fairs. Career fairs provide an opportunity to make an impression in a way that a resume cannot. You are able to make face-to-face connections with recruiters who will make the hiring decisions for their companies. When meeting a recruiter, you want to stand out—for positive reasons, of course. Based on our experience, we have come up with helpful tips on how to make a great first impression at your next career fair. These career fair tips can help you focus on how to make a good impression at a career fair.
First impressions are made in a few short seconds. Just as with interviews, when attending a career fair, dress in professional attire.
Most employers want to have a brief conversation with you about your background, and your resume is a crucial part of that conversation.
Almost every school will publish a list of attending employers and their open roles prior to the career fair.
Many organizations host next-day or even same-day interviews.
The Career Center at the University of California—Berkeley offers a quick reminder to be respectful of participating employers and fellow job seekers:
“Demonstrate sensitivity to others waiting to speak with employers by keeping your questions brief and offering to continue your conversation at a later time.”
“Enjoy the fair and your interaction with the employers. Let your positive attitude show!” We couldn’t agree more. This reflects core career fair etiquette and offers a simple guide to how to talk to recruiters at a career fair while being mindful of others’ time.
Answer: Dress professionally. Suits are preferred for everyone. If a suit isn’t feasible, men can wear a nice dress shirt with a tie and clean pants; women can wear dress pants or a skirt with a professional-looking top. Avoid jeans, sweatshirts, T-shirts, and anything too tight or revealing. If you’re unsure, pick the most polished option you have and err on the conservative side.
Answer: Bring several printed copies of a resume that is accurate and professional. If you lack formal experience, highlight school projects and campus involvement to show your skills and initiative. Your resume will anchor the brief conversation recruiters want to have about your background.
Answer: Review the list of attending employers and the roles they’re recruiting for, then prioritize your targets. Research those companies, prepare a few good questions, and be ready with examples of why you’re a fit. Read the fair’s company descriptions before you speak with a recruiter. While recruiters don’t expect you to know every industry detail, avoid asking “So, what do you guys do?”
Answer: Ask recruiters whether they’re hosting same-day or next-day on-campus interviews and sign up if offered. Doing so signals immediate interest and can move you to the front of the line.
Answer: Be respectful and courteous. Keep your questions brief, be mindful of others waiting, and offer to continue the conversation later if needed. Enjoy the interaction and let a positive attitude show—professionalism and courtesy make a strong impression.