While there’s plenty for job seekers to love about virtual networking, in-person job fairs have made a strong comeback in recent years. These face-to-face events are your chance to connect with potential employers, assess company cultures and discover opportunities you might have overlooked online. But to make the most of a job fair, preparation is everything. Beyond a positive attitude and a bag for your swag, here are six things to bring to a job fair that can significantly boost your chances of success.
1. more resumes than you need
You might think your LinkedIn profile has it covered, but most recruiters at job fairs still prefer good old-fashioned paper resumes. So, how many should you bring? Here’s a pro tip: estimate the number of recruiters you plan to chat with, then double it. Fire up that printer and get to work!
Keep those resumes neatly tucked in a document folder for quick and easy access. The last thing you want is to be digging through your tote bag mid-conversation.
Got your eye on different career paths? Bring tailored resumes to match. Craft one for seasonal or contract gigs and another for permanent roles, each highlighting the perfect mix of skills and experience. And here’s a clever trick: color-code your resumes to avoid any mix-ups. You don’t want to hand the wrong resume to the wrong person.
2. a polished elevator pitch
Job fairs are fast and furious, with hundreds of candidates and recruiters vying for each other’s attention. To stand out in this whirlwind, you need an elevator pitch. That’s your 30-second spotlight to introduce yourself, showcase your skills and lay out your career goals. Don’t just practice in front of your bathroom mirror, though. Grab a trusted friend or colleague and give your elevator pitch a real-world test drive.
3. a stash of business cards
You want to make it as easy as possible for recruiters to continue the conversation with you after the job fair. Hand them a business card, and they’ll have all your details in a single, convenient location.
When customizing your card, include everything a recruiter needs to know — and that’s it. Name, job title and contact details? Need to know. TikTok username and favorite inspirational quote? Don’t need to know.
If you create a digital business card — and there are plenty of free apps that make it easy — make sure your digital details match your paper-based ones.
4. research cue cards
It’s happened to every job fair attendee. You spend hours researching a company to dazzle the recruiter with your knowledge of their new product line. Then, in the heat of the moment, your mind goes blank.
Give yourself a fallback option by noting down key points — general research on companies you’re interested in, plus specific things to highlight with your top prospects — on pocket-sized cards. Recruiters won’t mind if you consult these when needed. In fact, they’ll be impressed that you’ve done your homework and come prepared.
5. a notebook
You’ll also want to do some research at the fair. Don’t assume that everything you need to know will be printed out on leaflets or stowed away in swag bags. That’s the official stuff — but a lot of the most interesting conversations at job fairs happen off the record. Perhaps a recruiter doesn’t have an opening for you right now but does have some insider tips on climbing the career ladder or knows a colleague who could help you. Have a small and manageable notebook handy to write this information down.
6. a change of clothes
Coffee spills happen — and you don’t want to spend half your day apologizing for them. Packing a just-in-case shirt or blouse will give you peace of mind.
Armed with these six things to bring to a job fair, you're not just prepared — you’re primed for success. Now, go out there and turn those handshakes into opportunities!
