Getting the Most Out of Career Fairs: Research, Notes, and Follow-Ups

By Rob Marunchak

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Career fairs are an excellent opportunity for university students to explore potential career paths, network with industry professionals, and even land internships or job offers. However, to truly capitalize on these opportunities, thorough preparation and strategic follow-up are essential. This guide will help you navigate career fairs effectively, focusing on research, taking notes, and following up with contacts.

Research: Preparing for the Career Fair

Proper research is the foundation of a successful career fair experience. By understanding the companies and roles available, you can make informed decisions about which booths to visit and prepare meaningful questions to ask.

Identify Your Goals

Before diving into research, define what you want to achieve from the career fair. Are you looking for a summer internship, exploring full-time job opportunities, or simply trying to understand different industries? Having clear goals will guide your research process.

Research Participating Companies

Once you have your goals, start researching the companies attending the fair. Most career fairs provide a list of participating organizations in advance. Prioritize your research based on your interests and goals.

• Visit each company's website to understand their mission, values, and recent news.
• Review their career page for available positions and required qualifications.
• Look for employee reviews on platforms like Glassdoor to get a sense of company culture.
• Take note of any recent achievements or projects that align with your interests.

Prepare Questions

Armed with your research, prepare a list of thoughtful questions for each company. Avoid generic questions; instead, focus on specifics that show you’ve done your homework.

• Ask about recent projects and how they align with the company's goals.
• Inquire about the skills and experiences valued in potential candidates.
• Seek information on company culture and professional development opportunities.

Notes: Capturing Key Information

During the career fair, you’ll gather a lot of information in a short period. Efficient note-taking will help you retain important details and make informed decisions later.

Develop a Note-Taking Method

Choose a method that works best for you, whether it's a notebook, a digital app, or using your phone. The key is to be consistent and organized.

• Start each note with the company's name and the representative's contact information.
• Write down key points discussed, including any job openings, required qualifications, and application deadlines.
• Note any personal insights or impressions about the company culture or the representative's demeanor.

Example Workflow for Note-Taking

• Before the Fair: Set up a template in your notebook or app with sections for each company.
• During the Fair: Fill in each section with specific details as you visit each booth.
• After the Fair: Review and organize your notes, highlighting key opportunities and deadlines.

Follow-Ups: Making a Lasting Impression

Following up after the career fair is crucial for reinforcing connections and demonstrating your interest. This step can make you stand out from other candidates.

Send Thank-You Notes

Within 24-48 hours of the career fair, send personalized thank-you emails to the representatives you spoke with. Express gratitude for their time and mention specific topics you discussed to jog their memory.

• Keep the email concise and professional.
• Reiterate your interest in the company and any positions you discussed.
• Attach your resume if it wasn't shared during the fair.

Connect on LinkedIn

LinkedIn is a powerful tool for maintaining professional connections. After sending your thank-you notes, connect with the representatives on LinkedIn.

• Include a personalized message reminding them of your conversation at the career fair.
• Engage with their content by liking or commenting on their posts, but do so genuinely.
• Regularly update your LinkedIn profile to reflect new skills, experiences, and achievements.

Monitor Opportunities

Stay proactive by monitoring job boards and the companies' career pages for new opportunities. If you see a position you’re interested in, reach out to your contacts for insights or referrals.

• Set up job alerts for the companies you’re interested in.
• Follow up with your contacts if you apply for a position, mentioning your application in your message.
• Continue to refine your resume and cover letter based on feedback and new insights.

Conclusion

Career fairs can be a pivotal moment in your professional journey if approached strategically. By conducting thorough research, taking detailed notes, and following up effectively, you can maximize your career fair experience and open doors to exciting opportunities. Remember, preparation and persistence are key to standing out and making a lasting impression on potential employers.

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