8 answers
Jeffery
Student
New Orleans, Louisiana
1
Question
Updated
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What are some good (and bad) questions to ask employers at career fairs?
I have a career fair coming up soon. What are some good/bad question to ask employers? I would specifically like to know questions employers like to hear but hear often. I imagine just about all the students ask reps "what do you do everyday?" or "what does this company do?".
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8 answers
Shaneil Singh
Human Resources Representative
10
Answers
Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
Updated
Shaneil’s Answer
Hello Jeffery!
Here are some enriching questions that can offer you a deeper understanding of any organization:
* "Can you share the company's core values?"
This question will help you understand the fundamental beliefs of the company and determine if they align with your own.
* "How would you describe the company culture?"
This question will give you a glimpse into the company's environment and how they take care of their employees, including events, benefits, support systems, and training opportunities.
* "Could you describe a typical day or week in the role?"
This question will offer you a vivid image of what specific roles entail within the company.
* "What positions are currently open in the company, or is a specific role available?"
This question will inform you about the opportunities that are currently available.
Remember, these questions will be most beneficial if you've done some preliminary research on the company. If you know who will be attending the meeting, it's a good idea to learn about them in advance. If you find out on the day of the meeting, take a few minutes to browse the company's website to familiarize yourself with their mission, values, and current job openings. Networking with the representative, especially on LinkedIn, is a valuable step. This connection can be a useful resource for future interactions.
I hope you find this advice beneficial!
Best,
Shaneil
Here are some enriching questions that can offer you a deeper understanding of any organization:
* "Can you share the company's core values?"
This question will help you understand the fundamental beliefs of the company and determine if they align with your own.
* "How would you describe the company culture?"
This question will give you a glimpse into the company's environment and how they take care of their employees, including events, benefits, support systems, and training opportunities.
* "Could you describe a typical day or week in the role?"
This question will offer you a vivid image of what specific roles entail within the company.
* "What positions are currently open in the company, or is a specific role available?"
This question will inform you about the opportunities that are currently available.
Remember, these questions will be most beneficial if you've done some preliminary research on the company. If you know who will be attending the meeting, it's a good idea to learn about them in advance. If you find out on the day of the meeting, take a few minutes to browse the company's website to familiarize yourself with their mission, values, and current job openings. Networking with the representative, especially on LinkedIn, is a valuable step. This connection can be a useful resource for future interactions.
I hope you find this advice beneficial!
Best,
Shaneil
Jerome Dees Jr.
Sales Professional and Networking Expert
613
Answers
San Francisco, California
Updated
Jerome’s Answer
I would encourage you to ask “what skills are you looking for in someone who will be successful with your company.” Once you get an answer, you can take experience and education you have and show how you embody those skills.
Rosie Kirakosyan
Assurance/Audit Associate
2
Answers
Dallas, Texas
Updated
Rosie’s Answer
Career fairs are fantastic platforms to expand your network and gain valuable insights about potential employers. To truly seize this opportunity, aim to ask questions that are thoughtful, engaging, and make you memorable. Here are some examples of effective and less effective questions you might want to consider:
Effective Questions to Engage Employers
Questions Demonstrating Genuine Interest and Research:
"What can you share about the company's culture and values?"
This question shows that you're seeking a job that aligns with your values, not just fulfilling a role.
"What are the key attributes and skills you value in a candidate for [specific position]?"
This indicates your desire to understand what it takes to excel in the role.
"How does the company promote professional growth and career advancement?"
This suggests that you're interested in a long-term commitment and wish to grow alongside the company.
"Could you tell me about recent projects or initiatives the company has undertaken?"
This displays your interest in the company's current endeavors and its impact on the industry.
"What challenges is the company currently tackling, and what strategies are in place to overcome them?"
This question helps you gauge the company’s market stance and strategic focus.
"How does the company cultivate diversity and inclusion within the workplace?"
This shows your appreciation for a diverse and inclusive work environment.
"What does a typical career progression look like for someone in [specific position or department]?"
This highlights your forward-thinking approach and your interest in growing within the company.
"How do teams within the company collaborate? Could you provide an example of cross-departmental collaboration?"
This underscores your interest in teamwork and organizational dynamics.
Questions That Mirror Your Personal Goals:
"What mentorship opportunities does the company offer?"
This shows your willingness to learn and your desire for guidance from seasoned professionals.
"How does the company gauge success and evaluate employee performance?"
This can help you understand the company’s expectations and how you can align your goals with them.
"How does the onboarding process work for new hires?"
This indicates you're already considering how to seamlessly integrate into the role.
General Guidelines
Do Your Homework: Study the companies that pique your interest. Familiarize yourself with their mission, values, recent news, and the positions they're hiring for.
Engage in Dialogue: Don't just reel off a list of questions. Engage in a meaningful conversation where you also share pertinent information about your skills and experiences.
Maintain Professionalism: Dress appropriately, be courteous, and express gratitude for the representatives' time.
By posing insightful and thoughtful questions, you'll leave a lasting impression and gather essential information to guide your career choices. Best of luck at your career fair!
Effective Questions to Engage Employers
Questions Demonstrating Genuine Interest and Research:
"What can you share about the company's culture and values?"
This question shows that you're seeking a job that aligns with your values, not just fulfilling a role.
"What are the key attributes and skills you value in a candidate for [specific position]?"
This indicates your desire to understand what it takes to excel in the role.
"How does the company promote professional growth and career advancement?"
This suggests that you're interested in a long-term commitment and wish to grow alongside the company.
"Could you tell me about recent projects or initiatives the company has undertaken?"
This displays your interest in the company's current endeavors and its impact on the industry.
"What challenges is the company currently tackling, and what strategies are in place to overcome them?"
This question helps you gauge the company’s market stance and strategic focus.
"How does the company cultivate diversity and inclusion within the workplace?"
This shows your appreciation for a diverse and inclusive work environment.
"What does a typical career progression look like for someone in [specific position or department]?"
This highlights your forward-thinking approach and your interest in growing within the company.
"How do teams within the company collaborate? Could you provide an example of cross-departmental collaboration?"
This underscores your interest in teamwork and organizational dynamics.
Questions That Mirror Your Personal Goals:
"What mentorship opportunities does the company offer?"
This shows your willingness to learn and your desire for guidance from seasoned professionals.
"How does the company gauge success and evaluate employee performance?"
This can help you understand the company’s expectations and how you can align your goals with them.
"How does the onboarding process work for new hires?"
This indicates you're already considering how to seamlessly integrate into the role.
General Guidelines
Do Your Homework: Study the companies that pique your interest. Familiarize yourself with their mission, values, recent news, and the positions they're hiring for.
Engage in Dialogue: Don't just reel off a list of questions. Engage in a meaningful conversation where you also share pertinent information about your skills and experiences.
Maintain Professionalism: Dress appropriately, be courteous, and express gratitude for the representatives' time.
By posing insightful and thoughtful questions, you'll leave a lasting impression and gather essential information to guide your career choices. Best of luck at your career fair!
Angel S
UI/UX Design Aspirant
363
Answers
India
Updated
Angel’s Answer
Good questions to ask employers at career fairs include:
"What skills or experiences are most important for this role?"
"What are the key challenges your team is facing?"
"What opportunities for growth or professional development are available?"
Avoid questions like:
"What do you do every day?" (Too vague and common)
"What does your company do?" (Shows lack of research)
"What’s the salary?" (Inappropriate early on)
"What skills or experiences are most important for this role?"
"What are the key challenges your team is facing?"
"What opportunities for growth or professional development are available?"
Avoid questions like:
"What do you do every day?" (Too vague and common)
"What does your company do?" (Shows lack of research)
"What’s the salary?" (Inappropriate early on)
Elizabeth Thesing
Engineering
13
Answers
Springfield, Ohio
Updated
Elizabeth’s Answer
I agree with the answers above, but keep an open mind at the career fair. A company may have an interesting booth or be recruiting for degrees you didn't think they would recruit from, and you may be interested. Talk to those companies even if you aren't prepared! I often had students stopping by to ask about the demo my company had on display, and hadn't heard of our company. If they showed interest, asked relevant questions about the demo or the products after a brief explanation, I would rate their resume higher on our list of potential interviewees.
If you do take this approach, don't be afraid to start out by explaining that you don't know a lot about the company but are interested in learning about their ______ (demo, product examples, poster at the booth, etc). Take time to list and focus in on anything that interests you, and ask follow up questions about that topic. If you find you're not interested after all, be polite about it and if asked for a resume do give them one. You might find in researching the company later that they work in some cool areas that you weren't able to learn about in a few minutes at the booth.
If you do take this approach, don't be afraid to start out by explaining that you don't know a lot about the company but are interested in learning about their ______ (demo, product examples, poster at the booth, etc). Take time to list and focus in on anything that interests you, and ask follow up questions about that topic. If you find you're not interested after all, be polite about it and if asked for a resume do give them one. You might find in researching the company later that they work in some cool areas that you weren't able to learn about in a few minutes at the booth.
Guy Léonard
Retiree
8
Answers
Baelen, Walloon Region
Updated
Guy’s Answer
Good Questions to Ask
These demonstrate your interest, research, and thoughtfulness.
About the Role and Opportunities
“What types of roles or internships are available for someone with my skills and experience?”
Shows you're aligning yourself with their needs.
“What skills or experiences do you look for in a candidate for this specific position?”
Demonstrates a focus on self-improvement and relevance.
“Can you tell me about a typical day for someone in this role?”
Provides insight into the job's daily responsibilities.
About the Company
“What are the company’s goals and values, and how does this department contribute to them?”
Reflects a long-term interest in the organization.
“How does your company support professional development and growth for employees?”
Shows you're looking to build a career, not just secure a job.
“What do you enjoy most about working at this company?”
Encourages a personal connection and helps you learn about company culture.
Future-Focused
“What challenges or trends do you see impacting this industry in the next few years?”
Positions you as forward-thinking and industry-aware.
“Are there opportunities to transition between departments or roles within the company?”
Reflects adaptability and interest in career progression.
Next Steps
“What are the next steps in the recruitment process, and when can I expect to hear back?”
Shows you’re serious about moving forward.
“Can I connect with you on LinkedIn or follow up with additional questions?”
Politely keeps the conversation open for future interaction.
Bad Questions to Avoid
These may come across as unprepared, entitled, or overly focused on personal benefits.
Unprepared or Generic Questions
“What does your company do?”
Indicates you haven’t done any research beforehand.
“Do you have any jobs for me?”
Too vague and self-centered.
“How much does this position pay?” (unless the recruiter brings it up)
Salary discussions are best saved for later in the hiring process.
Questions Showing Lack of Interest
“Can I work from home?” (unless remote work is explicitly discussed)
May seem like you’re more focused on convenience than the role itself.
“How soon can I take time off?”
Suggests a lack of commitment before even starting.
“What’s your vacation policy?”
This can be asked later in the process, not at an initial introduction.
Too Personal or Irrelevant Questions
“How quickly can I get promoted?”
Can come across as impatient or entitled.
“Do you do background checks or drug tests?”
Raises unnecessary red flags about your suitability for the role.
These demonstrate your interest, research, and thoughtfulness.
About the Role and Opportunities
“What types of roles or internships are available for someone with my skills and experience?”
Shows you're aligning yourself with their needs.
“What skills or experiences do you look for in a candidate for this specific position?”
Demonstrates a focus on self-improvement and relevance.
“Can you tell me about a typical day for someone in this role?”
Provides insight into the job's daily responsibilities.
About the Company
“What are the company’s goals and values, and how does this department contribute to them?”
Reflects a long-term interest in the organization.
“How does your company support professional development and growth for employees?”
Shows you're looking to build a career, not just secure a job.
“What do you enjoy most about working at this company?”
Encourages a personal connection and helps you learn about company culture.
Future-Focused
“What challenges or trends do you see impacting this industry in the next few years?”
Positions you as forward-thinking and industry-aware.
“Are there opportunities to transition between departments or roles within the company?”
Reflects adaptability and interest in career progression.
Next Steps
“What are the next steps in the recruitment process, and when can I expect to hear back?”
Shows you’re serious about moving forward.
“Can I connect with you on LinkedIn or follow up with additional questions?”
Politely keeps the conversation open for future interaction.
Bad Questions to Avoid
These may come across as unprepared, entitled, or overly focused on personal benefits.
Unprepared or Generic Questions
“What does your company do?”
Indicates you haven’t done any research beforehand.
“Do you have any jobs for me?”
Too vague and self-centered.
“How much does this position pay?” (unless the recruiter brings it up)
Salary discussions are best saved for later in the hiring process.
Questions Showing Lack of Interest
“Can I work from home?” (unless remote work is explicitly discussed)
May seem like you’re more focused on convenience than the role itself.
“How soon can I take time off?”
Suggests a lack of commitment before even starting.
“What’s your vacation policy?”
This can be asked later in the process, not at an initial introduction.
Too Personal or Irrelevant Questions
“How quickly can I get promoted?”
Can come across as impatient or entitled.
“Do you do background checks or drug tests?”
Raises unnecessary red flags about your suitability for the role.
Aline Paulino
Senior Human Resources Director
1
Answer
São Paulo, Brazil
Updated
Aline’s Answer
Hello Jeffery, I strongly suggest that you delve into some preliminary research about the companies or sectors that pique your interest the most. Get to know them through their websites and social media platforms. Understand their culture, mission, values, strategies, and even some financial aspects. This will equip you to engage in more meaningful discussions about the company and how it aligns with your personal values and goals. Be true to yourself, genuine and organized. Create a personal "pitch" that encapsulates who you are and what you're passionate about. This will allow you to share your profile in a compelling way!
Trisha Borme
Talent Acquisition - Hiring
30
Answers
North Kingstown, Rhode Island
Updated
Trisha’s Answer
You typically have limited time with a recruiter during job fairs. However, I agree with Aline. Do you research and understand who will attend and what they do. It's so impressive for someone to share I read up on your company and, "I was impressed with ....
Introduce yourself ... your elevator pitch. Be personable and thank them for their time. See if you can write down their name and send them a connection on LinkedIn sharing you enjoyed meeting them at the career fair and you are very interested in their company. Go the extra mile to show your interest and how your skills will align with the company. You got this!!
Introduce yourself ... your elevator pitch. Be personable and thank them for their time. See if you can write down their name and send them a connection on LinkedIn sharing you enjoyed meeting them at the career fair and you are very interested in their company. Go the extra mile to show your interest and how your skills will align with the company. You got this!!