How to Stand Out at Career Fairs
Take the stress out of career fairs with these 3 tips.
Some people know it’s fall because of the changing leaves, availability of pumpkin spice lattes, or the ending of bachelor in paradise. For those of us in career development, the beginning of fall is the start of the career fair season.
Career fairs are stressful — but there is a way to survive and even thrive during these events. You just have to master a few basics! Read below for my time-tested tips.
DO NOT SKIP CLASS.
First of all, it’s not worth it. I know it’s tempting and you might be thinking “the career fair only happens once! What if I miss it and my career prospects are doomed?!” Remember that the main reason you are here is to learn something (coincidently, that’s the main reason employers would hire you!) — so please, prioritize your academics. There is always another networking event around the corner.
Ditch the pitch — try a conversation
Elevator pitches are a thing of the past — they are BORING! Think about it, if you were a recruiter would you want to listen to 30–90 second monologues from droves of anxious students? They blend together and the recruiter stops listening. Instead of a pitch, try a conversation! Something like:
Me: Hi, My name is Rebecca!
Them: Hi, I’m [recruiter name].
Me: I’m a grad student focusing on UX Research here at Berkeley. This is one of my first career fairs and I’m learning so much! What does [insert company name] do?
Them: We do stuff and things with people.
Me: Interesting! That stuff sounds like you’d need a great ux interface to make it work and it also sounds like you really prioritize your customers and their needs. Are you hiring for ux research or design type roles?
As you can see above, if you are INTERESTED then the recruiter will find you INTERESTING. Ask questions!
Approach with an open mind.
If you go to career fairs (or info sessions, networking events, etc) with the mindset that you are learning and exploring, you will be less anxious and have more fun….and you’ll be more successful! Do not just focus on the “known” companies or roles — look where people aren’t looking. Make your intention one of exploration and learning.
And of course, your friendly career center is always there to help (so don’t be a stranger!). Speaking of which, here are some great resources:
