3 answers
Rachel
Student
Cedarhurst, New York
21
Questions
Asked
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What are some the best ways to network at a college career fair?
I am a junior at Queens College #career
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3 answers
Joel Volkert
Educator/Career Coach, Founder of "Learn Now Learn Well"
34
Answers
Austin, Texas
Updated
Joel’s Answer
Hi Rachel,
I know you posted this several months ago, so I'm not sure if you're still looking for advice, but just in case:
- Bring several copies of your resume and/or business cards to share with employers. This will show that you have taken the time to showcase your strengths and experience, and they will have a solid copy of your qualifications. (Make sure to get information from them as well, and send a follow-up email saying it was nice to meet them, talk with them, etc.)
- If you know in advance what companies will be there, do your research on them. Nothing stands out more than someone who is able to provide specific information and questions about a company, especially when you are competing with many other individuals. You may want to compliment them on a recent event or acquisition, or ask a company-specific question that shows you have done your research.
- Make sure to get as many business cards, flyers and informational guides as possible while at the networking event
- Don't be afraid to engage in conversation with employers. That is why they are there, after all! Even if you are a shy person, many times listening to their pitches and providing some information about yourself will be sufficient. If there are many employers that you want to network with, spend just 5-10 minutes with each in order to maximize the number that you can connect with.
Above all, remember to bring resumes and/or business cards, take information about potential employers, and try to meet as many recruiters as possible. Good luck!!
I know you posted this several months ago, so I'm not sure if you're still looking for advice, but just in case:
- Bring several copies of your resume and/or business cards to share with employers. This will show that you have taken the time to showcase your strengths and experience, and they will have a solid copy of your qualifications. (Make sure to get information from them as well, and send a follow-up email saying it was nice to meet them, talk with them, etc.)
- If you know in advance what companies will be there, do your research on them. Nothing stands out more than someone who is able to provide specific information and questions about a company, especially when you are competing with many other individuals. You may want to compliment them on a recent event or acquisition, or ask a company-specific question that shows you have done your research.
- Make sure to get as many business cards, flyers and informational guides as possible while at the networking event
- Don't be afraid to engage in conversation with employers. That is why they are there, after all! Even if you are a shy person, many times listening to their pitches and providing some information about yourself will be sufficient. If there are many employers that you want to network with, spend just 5-10 minutes with each in order to maximize the number that you can connect with.
Above all, remember to bring resumes and/or business cards, take information about potential employers, and try to meet as many recruiters as possible. Good luck!!
Hi Joel!
Thank you so much for the amazing advice you provided to Rachel! Out of my own curiosity, what types of conversation starters/topics do you use at networking/recruiting events? I've found that my more successful connections usually originate from conversations regarding things other than work (personal interests, family, hobbies etc.), but I often feel weird about asking them about themselves with other students around.
Any advice you could provide would be very helpful! Thanks so much in advance!
David Ohta
COACH
Hi David, they don't give much space, so I'll keep it short -if you want more info, check out my site - LearnNowLearnWell. Some topics depend on the kind of recruiting event (ie Engineers, Business). In general: *If you’re fine talking about hobbies and families, keep doing that. Don't worry what others think, especially if it works for you! *Simply walk up, introduce yourself, shake their hand, and ask what they do. It's easier to ask first and gauge the level of interest. *Consider going with a friend. *Ask: "So, have you been to a networking event like this before?" , "Do you work around here?" or "How long have you been in your current role?" *Consider asking about news events: "I saw that Amazon bought WholeFoods. What do you think that will do for the company?"
Joel Volkert
Hi Joel! Thank you so much for your reply! Your website is great and those conversation starters are super helpful!
David Ohta
COACH
Hi Joel! Thank you so much for your reply! Your website is great and those conversation starters are super helpful!
David Ohta
COACH
Thanks David! Let me know if you need anything else.
Joel Volkert
Ken Simmons
Assist with Recognizing and Developing Potential
1695
Answers
Cleveland, Ohio
Updated
Ken’s Answer
Hi Rachel!
You asked a very important question.
Here are some good tips for making the most of the career fair:
http://qcpages.qc.edu/career/Career/html/resources/careerFair_tips.html
https://www.livecareer.com/quintessential/career-fair-tips
Let me know if this helps.
Ken Simmons
Assist with Recognizing and Developing Potential
1695
Answers
Cleveland, Ohio
Updated
Ken’s Answer
Hi Rachel!
Although this is primarily aimed at international students, it has quite a few good tips for you to follow:
https://www.nacacfairs.org/attend/national-college-fairs/college-fair-tips2/
Best of luck! Keep me posted. I would like to follow your progress
A good place to start is your local community college: http://www.educationplanner.org/students/paying-for-school/ways-to-pay/reduce-college-costs.shtml
Ken Simmons