Career fairs are exciting for any job hunter. You get to meet hundreds of peers, build relationships with recruiters, and most importantly: get the word out there about you, your skills, and your dream role.
With all this in mind, it pays to be prepared. That’s why we’ve gathered together our nine top steps for making the most of your next career fair. Read on the learn more.
Step one—Update your resume
Be sure to include your GPA, awards, and student involvement on campus. If you need help writing a resume from scratch (or just updating your existing one), explore our step-by-step guide to resume writing for college students.
Graduates and more experienced candidates should consider tailoring their resume to the job they want. Our guide on reverse-engineering your resume for career success has more advice.
It’s important to note that very few people are a perfect match for their ideal job. Sometimes, you’ll need to take the initiative and show how you can bridge the gap and rise to the challenge. Find out more in our guide to applying for the job, even if you think you don’t quite qualify.
Virtual event bonus step: Review the platform and update your profile
Check out the platform the fair is hosted on. Some allow video, voice calls, and live chat, while others only allow one or the other. Update your profile, add your email, resume, LinkedIn, GitHub, and anything else you can. This helps recruiters get to know you and makes it easier for them to get in touch.
Step two—Prepare your elevator pitch
This 90 second pitch should include things like as your major, class year, graduation year, and the reasons behind your career interests. Sell yourself and be memorable!
Here’s a short pitch example from Oracle Diversity Recruiting Program Manager RayVion Collins to get you started:
Hello, I’m RayVion Collins. I am a junior here at Oracle University, I major in human resources with a minor in communications. I am the student president of the HR Student Association at Oracle University, and I will be graduating next Spring. I have completed two HR internships since starting college and I am excited to speak with you today to learn more about the HR Rotational Development Program that your company is currently hiring. How are you doing today?
Step three—Look the part
You should always dress for success whether attending a virtual or in-person career fair. If you have to think twice about what you’re wearing, perhaps save it for a different event!
If you’re attending virtually, make sure you’re in a quiet area with a background free of distractions. Try using Zoom’s background blur feature to keep the focus on you. Or upload a professional profile photo of yourself if keeping your camera off. Our quick guide on getting ready for video interviews has more tips.
Step four—Do your homework
Review the list of attending employers ahead of time, determine which employers to target, then start your research. Explore the current roles they have open that interest you and be able to speak about your qualifications.
Note two or three things that stick out about that company like their values or any interesting development programs. Make sure you mention those key points during your conversation.
Step five—Apply in advance
Apply for open roles that interest you before the career fair—preferably during or soon after step four. This means when you do meet with a representative you can inform them of your application and inquire about the interview process. This makes a strong statement about your interest.
Step six—Make a list
There will be many employers there and you may not be able to speak with them all. List your top five and be intentional with your time during the event. Ensure you speak to the employers who have what you want.
Step seven—Bring your energy
Introduce yourself with a smile and a firm handshake. Remember, companies are there because they have opportunities and want to meet you. They’re there to be approached! Be enthusiastic about your interaction and the company. It can be nerve-wracking but be confident with being yourself and knowing you have what they are looking for.
Step eight—Follow up
Make sure you collect business cards or jot down the names of the people you meet during the fair. It helps to connect with employer representatives on LinkedIn right away while their details are fresh.
Note something unique you spoke about and mention it in your follow up communications. Employers speak to hundreds of people at career fairs and this will help them remember you.
Step nine—Network, network, network
You never know where or who your next opportunity will come from. Be sure to network as much as possible because those relationships can be leveraged in the future for opportunities. This is a huge subject, and we don’t have the space to dive into it here. Luckily, you can find all the networking tips you need in our guide to better networking.
There you have it—nine steps to making the very most out of your next career fair. We hope they help with your job hunt.
Are you looking for excellent career opportunities in the world of tech? Explore our latest open roles today and come create the future with us.
Oracle Careers Editorial Team
The editorial team is comprised of members of the Oracle Talent Advisory group, with a wide-range of employer branding responsibilities. They partner with employees across Oracle to capture stories that showcase our company, culture and career opportunities, and help candidates envision their #LifeAtOracle.