4 min. read
Career fairs are a great opportunity to connect directly with corporate recruiters, explore potential internship opportunities, and sharpen your networking skills. With fall career fairs just around the corner, being well-prepared can make all the difference. As our team of construction and human resources professionals gear up to meet with potential interns for our own SitelogIQ Internship Program, we’ve put together a few tips to help students prepare, too, and make the most out of the experience.
1. Research the Career Fair and Employers
Before the event, review the list of participating organizations. Prioritize companies that align with your career goals and interests. Take the time to:
- Explore their websites and open job postings.
- Learn about their company culture, values, and recent news.
- Identify roles that match your skills and career aspirations.
This preparation allows you to ask thoughtful questions and show genuine interest when speaking with recruiters.
2. Polish Your Resume
Your resume is often the first impression recruiters will have of you. Make sure it’s tailored, up to date, and free of errors. Highlight relevant experiences, skills, and achievements. Bring multiple copies printed on professional-quality paper, and consider having a digital version ready to share.
Pro tip: Keep your resume concise (one page for early-career professionals) and emphasize results with strong action verbs.
3. Tailor Your Elevator Pitch
Recruiters meet hundreds of candidates at career fairs, so it’s essential to stand out quickly. Prepare a 30–60 second “elevator pitch” that covers:
- Who you are (your name and major/education).
- Your background and key skills.
- What type of opportunities you’re seeking.
- Why you’re interested in their organization.
Practicing your elevator pitch is important, but to help you stand out to employers, make sure you tailor your pitch towards their company. Incorporate information you learned through your research about potential opportunities and why you would be a good fit.
4. Put Your Best Self Forward
First impressions matter. Wear attire that aligns with a professional workplace, typically business casual. Make sure your outfit is neat, clean, and comfortable enough for a long day of networking.
When approaching a company, offer a handshake, introduce yourself, and ask for their name and role at the company. And remember, take a deep breath and shake off the nerves.
5. Prepare Questions to Ask
Recruiters appreciate candidates who ask thoughtful, informed questions. This demonstrates your interest and initiative. Examples include:
- “What qualities do you look for in successful candidates for this role?”
- “What does the typical career path look like at your organization?”
- “How does your company support professional development?”
- “How does your program involve and support interns?”
Avoid questions you could easily answer through a quick online search.
6. Bring the Essentials
Come equipped with the tools you’ll need for a successful day:
- Copies of your resume.
- A notebook and pen for jotting down notes.
- A charged phone for quick research and contact exchange.
7. Follow Up Afterwards
The career fair doesn’t end when you leave the event. Following up is a crucial step to reinforce the connection. Keep in mind that recruiters and professionals attending your school’s career fairs most likely have more fairs lined up. While some companies may secure interviews shortly after your career fair, others may wait until they’ve attended all of the season’s fairs.
Our HR professionals recommend following up once a week post-fair, and asking about the company’s process and timeline for interviewing and hiring interns. Remain connected and demonstrate your interest in our company and opportunity. They also advise connecting with the recruiters you met on LinkedIn and reaching out that way as well.
SitelogIQ’s team is set to attend career fairs across the U.S. this fall. Below is a comprehensive list of where we’ll be – make sure to stop by or apply online today.
