Learn how to prepare, impress, and follow up at job fairs with these tips on researching employers, dressing professionally, collecting information, and adjusting expectations.

I have a thing where as soon as I leave an interview, before the day is over I send a follow-up thank you email. I thank my interviewer for taking the time to meet with me, express my continued interest in the role, and reflect on parts of our conversation that were interesting and stuck with me. I typically get a reply back to that email rather quickly. If I have to follow-up again because it's been over a week and I haven't heard anything, I keep it brief but to the point. And even then u get a reply back rather quickly.

Last updated on Feb 24, 2024

How do you balance your expectations and reality when applying for jobs at a job fair?

Job fairs can be a great opportunity to network, learn about different employers, and apply for jobs that interest you. However, they can also be challenging, competitive, and frustrating if you don't balance your expectations and reality. In this article, we'll share some tips on how to prepare for a job fair, how to make a good impression, and how to follow up after the event.

1 Know your goals

Before you attend a job fair, you should have a clear idea of what you want to achieve. Do you want to explore different career options, or focus on specific industries or roles? Do you want to apply for jobs on the spot, or just collect information and contacts? Do you have a realistic sense of your qualifications, skills, and experience? Knowing your goals will help you plan your strategy, prioritize your time, and target your efforts.

Add your perspective

Jade Pitman, SHRM-CP

Talent Acquisition Leader & Human Resources Professional | Talent Huntress, obtaining a magical team, one unicorn at a time!
Having a clear idea of what you are looking for in a position and company. That doesn’t meant to be hung up on job titles or big company names. What are you skills, and what positions align with those skills. Any transferable skills? Be teachable; what skills would you like to develop, are skills you need to add to continue strengthening your career path; how do those skills apply now and in the future What are your values? Having values that aren’t negotiable are important - it means that you know what you want! Example would be flexible hours and schedules; perhaps working in a collections office where there are daily and hourly goals to meet, might not be the right choice for you. Knowing yourself is being prepared.
Like
Report contribution

2 Research the employers

One of the best ways to stand out at a job fair is to show that you have done your homework on the employers that interest you. Research their websites, social media, and news articles to learn about their mission, vision, values, products, services, and culture. Prepare some questions that demonstrate your interest and knowledge, and tailor your resume and elevator pitch to highlight your relevant skills and achievements.

Add your perspective

3 Dress and act professionally

First impressions matter, especially at a job fair where you have limited time and attention to make an impact. Dress appropriately for the industry and the role you are applying for, and avoid anything too casual, flashy, or distracting. Be polite, confident, and enthusiastic when you approach the employers, and use a firm handshake, eye contact, and a smile. Introduce yourself with your name, field of study, and career objective, and explain why you are interested in their organization and what you can offer them.

Add your perspective

Shubham Kumar Nirala

Senior Manager-Training & Placement at Sharda University,Greater Noida
Balancing expectations and reality when applying for jobs at a job fair involves setting realistic goals, being adaptable, and managing expectations. It's essential to research the companies attending the fair, understand the job market, and assess your qualifications realistically. While it's natural to have high hopes, it's crucial to be prepared for various outcomes, including potential rejections or unexpected opportunities. Keeping an open mind, staying positive, and focusing on making meaningful connections can help navigate the job fair experience effectively. Additionally, being flexible and willing to explore different opportunities can lead to unexpected positive outcomes.
Like
Report contribution

4 Collect and organize information

A job fair is not only a chance to showcase yourself, but also to learn more about the employers and their opportunities. Collect brochures, flyers, business cards, and application forms from the booths you visit, and take notes on the conversations you have. Organize your information in a folder or a portfolio, and review it later to identify your next steps. You can also use your phone or a notebook to jot down any important details or feedback.

Add your perspective

5 Follow up promptly

One of the most important things to do after a job fair is to follow up with the employers you met and express your appreciation and interest. Send a thank-you email within 24 hours of the event, and attach your resume and a cover letter if requested. Remind them of who you are, what position you applied for or discussed, and why you are a good fit for their organization. Keep your email brief, professional, and personalized, and avoid sending generic or mass messages. If you don't hear back within a week or two, you can send a polite reminder or inquiry.

Add your perspective

Shanay Walker

Just Leaving a Sprinkle of Creativity Everywhere I Go! HR Coordinator | Artist
I have a thing where as soon as I leave an interview, before the day is over I send a follow-up thank you email. I thank my interviewer for taking the time to meet with me, express my continued interest in the role, and reflect on parts of our conversation that were interesting and stuck with me. I typically get a reply back to that email rather quickly. If I have to follow-up again because it's been over a week and I haven't heard anything, I keep it brief but to the point. And even then u get a reply back rather quickly.
Like
Report contribution
Isabel Moura da Silva

Química - Borracha e Plásticos / Tecnóloga em Cosméticos
Eu vou bem incrédula às Feiras de Emprego que tem na minha região. Sinceramente, é uma perda de tempo. Uma cena triste de se ver. Muitos desempregados, numa fila enorme, desesperados por serem escolhidos para fazer uma entrevista ou sair do evento com uma indicação para uma vaga. Mas o que tem mesmo é uma encenação de que existem muitas vagas disponíveis ( a ação aparece até em reportagens da TV), o desempregado deixa um currículo, da informações desnecessárias como: qual a pretensão salarial e qual foi o último salário que teve quando estava empregado. A parte humanizada é que eles distribuem lanche (bolacha, suco e maçã ) e permitem o candidato tirar cópia do currículo. Nunca vi alguém que conseguiu uma dessas vagas.

Translated
Like
Report contribution

6 Adjust your expectations

Finally, remember that a job fair is not a guarantee of employment, but rather a step in your job search process. Don't expect to get hired on the spot, or to hear back from every employer you contacted. Be patient, persistent, and flexible, and use the feedback and experience you gained to improve your resume, interview skills, and career goals. A job fair can be a valuable learning opportunity, as well as a potential gateway to your dream job.

Add your perspective

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

Add your perspective

Luciana Alves

Bióloga, disponível para viajar. Buscando trabalho como Bióloga/Auxiliar de Campo para Resgate de Fauna
As expectativas de um candidato sempre serão as melhores. Todos procuramos atuar numa boa empresa pra desenvolver o que aprendemos, dar o nosso melhor e somar aprendizado com a oportunidade oferecida. Eu por exemplo sempre pesquiso a empresa, os CEOs dessa empresa e as conexões prováveis que tenho na plataforma para me encher de informações e formalizar minha candidatura por e-mail. Infelizmente a disponibilidade de vagas no mercado de trabalho virou uma pesquisa de estatística e muitas vezes empresas agem de forma antiética não dando um feedback pras pessoas que não está só a procura de uma recolocação profissional, mas também viver dignamente. As empresas também precisam cumprir com a parte que deveriam ser de suas responsabilidades.

Translated
Like
Report contribution

How do you balance your expectations and reality when applying for jobs at a job fair?

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Know your goals

2 Research the employers

3 Dress and act professionally

4 Collect and organize information

5 Follow up promptly

6 Adjust your expectations

7 Here’s what else to consider

Job Fairs

Rate this article

Thanks for your feedback

More articles on Job Fairs

More relevant reading