It’s that time of the year again, recruiters are back on campus, showcasing their brands, connecting with students, and encouraging application for graduate and placement programmes. One of the most popular ways they do this is through careers fairs.
Careers fairs are a great opportunity to meet recruiters face-to-face, learn about different organisations, and explore what they have to offer. Whether you’re just starting to think about your future or you’re actively applying, these events can be really valuable. To help you make the most of it, here are our five top tips for navigating a careers fair with confidence.
1. Do your Research
Careers fairs are a great chance to make connections, and preparation is key to making the most of it. Taking time to research the organisations attending will help you feel confident and make a good impression.
Explore company websites to understand their values, the different roles they offer, and the qualifications they’re looking for. Consider whether their opportunities align with your career goals. You might also find it helpful to look up their recruiters on LinkedIn and connect beforehand, it’s a great way to show initiative.
This preparation allows you to approach conversations with confidence. For example:
“Hello, I’m [Your Name], and I’m currently studying BA Psychology. I’ve been researching your organisation and I’m really interested in your 12-month placement programme. Could you tell me a little more about the application process?”.
Recruiters attend careers fairs to meet proactive, engaged students. Showing that you’ve done your homework not only makes a great first impression, it also sets you apart.
2. Perfect Your Elevator Pitch
At a careers fair, you often only have a couple of minutes to make a memorable impression, so it’s important to be prepared. Before approaching an organisation’s stand, you should think about a clear and confident introduction that includes who you are, what you’re studying, your career interests, and what you hope to gain from the conversation. A well prepared pitch shows professionalism and genuine interest.
You can also use the opportunity to ask thoughtful questions, such as:
- What do you look for in a strong application?
- How candidates can stand out during the recruitment process?
Very few students take time to prepare a pitch, so doing so can help you stand out. It shows initiative, confidence, and a real enthusiasm for the opportunity to learn more.
3. Continue The Conversation
Your interaction with the recruiter doesn’t have to end when the careers fair does. Following up is a great way to reinforce your interest and stay on their radar.
Within 24 hours, consider connecting with them on LinkedIn. Send a short, personalised message to thank them for their time and remind them who you are. This small gesture can leave a lasting impression and help build a professional relationship.
Staying engaged with content on LinkedIn is also a great way to stay up to date with any organisational updates, news and announcements.
By continuing the conversation, you not only gain valuable insights but also increase your chances of being remembered when new roles open up.
4. Ask Thoughtful Questions
The right questions can turn a quick chat into a memorable conversation. Instead of asking things you can easily find online, like “What roles do you offer?”, try digging a little deeper. Ask about things like team culture, training and development, or what makes someone successful within the role or organisation. For example:
- “What kind of support do placement students typically receive?”
- “What sets successful applicants apart, in your experience?”
Asking thoughtful questions shows you’ve done your homework and that you’re genuinely interested. Plus, you’ll walk away with useful insights that could give you a competitive edge when it comes to applying.
5. Reflect and Take Action
After the careers fair, take some time to reflect on the conversations you had and the insights you gained. Which organisations stood out? What roles sparked your interest? Use this information to guide your next steps, whether that’s tailoring your CV, starting an application, or doing deeper research into a particular organisation.
Remember, careers fairs are just the beginning. Turning those initial conversations into real opportunities requires follow-through. Set yourself a few short-term goals based on what you learned, and keep the momentum going.
By preparing well, making meaningful connections, and following up with purpose, you’re already setting yourself apart from the crowd.
If you’re looking for a placement or graduate opportunity where you can make an impact from day one, we’d love to hear from you. Explore our current roles at Enterprise Mobility and take the first step towards a career that moves you forward.