How to start a conversation at a career fair

Try to approach recruiters personably but professionally, and you will be able to hold a productive conversation and potentially make an important connection. Here are some ways to talk to recruiters at a career fair:

1. Go to a pre-fair networking event

If the career fair is at a university, there will often be several pre-job-fair events full of helpful information and opportunities to connect with other candidates and even recruiters. Some business clubs may host these for members, while others might be open to anyone. Some schools might also host networking breakfasts. Check the schedule of the career fair and attend as many events as you can or only the ones that interest you.

2. Prepare an elevator pitch

Before you go to the fair, make an elevator pitch, which is a 30-second explanation of who you are and what you’ve done. A great pitch should tell the recruiter your interests, summarize your experience and capture their interest. Elevator pitches are extremely useful at career fairs since you have little time to speak to each recruiter but want to capitalize on the opportunity and generate interest as a potential employee.

3. Do your homework

Before you even attend the career fair, spend some time performing research. Look into what companies will be in attendance, then make a list of businesses you are interested in. You can even order them according to how much you would like to work for each. Next, research those businesses. Find out what positions they are currently seeking, read about the expectations for certain roles and read their mission statement and company values. Doing so can help provide more questions and conversation topics to bring up when you meet their recruiters.

4. Write down questions

Based on the research you performed, write down your questions, which can help you reference them later and note the answers you receive. Here are some example questions to prepare:

• “Aside from manufacturing, what other positions is your company considering?”
• “How do you see the company growing in five years?”
• “What is the company culture like?”
• “How long have you been with this company?

The last question shows interest in the recruiter. By asking, you are being more personable and memorable. Impressing the recruiter by showing interpersonal skills could be beneficial in making a connection.

5. Approach a table you are not interested in first

If you are nervous about your preparation or introducing yourself, try speaking with a recruiter that’s not on your list first. Practice your elevator pitch on them. Take the opportunity to learn more about a company you did not prepare for and about how you can present yourself. Once you have made the first step, it might be easier to approach the companies and recruiters you truly wish to talk to.

6. Start the conversation with a smile

Smile at the beginning of your conversation to show you are excited to be there. This small cue can tell recruiters you are friendly and interested. Introduce yourself simply but professionally, for example, “Hello, I’m John Samuels. It’s a pleasure to meet you.” Shake their hand firmly and look them in the eyes. All these cues are ways to make yourself stand out and seem presentable, open to conversation and professional.