Careers Fair Advice

Wherever you live, there will always be regular job fairs held in a city near you.

First of all, arrive early so you have a good look around and avoid getting flustered by the many stands that will no doubt be there. From your preparation, you would have worked out a priority list indicating which companies you would like to meet. You probably will be able to print out a copy of the company booths layout from the fair's website, or alternatively you will be able to see the layout plan at the entrance to the fair. You may need to readjust your priority list according to what is logical, based on the layout.

With this plan, start making your way through the booths. Avoid just picking up brochures and dropping off your CV at the booths. Take time to talk to your selected employers - even if there are many other people crowding around the booth. If it is not yet your time to talk, take the opportunity to listen to what others are asking the recruiters. You will often get very sound advice and good insight into the company.

Remember to ask questions relating to available job opportunities, what they are looking for in a successful candidate, what their recruitment process involves etc.

Ask whether they are accepting CVs and, if so, leave yours with them. Before you leave, pick up any company recruitment brochure available and make sure you also get the recruiter's business card, as you will want to follow up on interesting leads.

Finally, leaving the fair is not the end of the entire process. Your post-fair actions are important. Using the business cards you have collected and the notes you have made, you should write or email personal 'thank you' notes to each of the recruiters you met. This is not only courtesy, but gives the recruiter the impression that you are really serious about the opportunity and that you appreciated their time. Also, if you mention any particular conversation you had about the opportunities, you will create a really good impression.

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