Most students have mixed feelings about college career fairs.
On the one hand, you want a job and this is exactly what a career fair is for.
On the other hand, an in-person career fair can require standing in line in a big room with a crowd of other students trying to talk with a handful of recruiters. This might seem miserable: you’ve got to dress appropriately; make small talk with strangers; limit interactions to a few impersonal minutes; bring resumes; register; and act enthusiastic. And, you have no idea whether there’s an actual job or internship for you at the end of this event!
As far as a virtual career fair--is it useful? Are you making any real or helpful connections? How is this any different from job searching with LinkedIn, Handshake, or Indeed? Isn’t the point of a career fair to make a “human” connection—if so, why bother with virtual?
Plus there are questions for either model: What do I wear? What do I say? Who will I be talking to? What if I say the wrong thing?
So it may not seem all that fun, but it can be useful, regardless of whether it’s in-person or virtual. Here’s why:
1. Access to Employers — Meeting recruiters face-to-face takes some of the mystery out of dealing with the job search process. These are just normal people doing their job, i.e., finding talented employees for their organization. You can learn from them and get a leg up in the job search process!
2. Insight into Companies and Industries — Even short conversations with company representatives can give job-seekers insight into industries and roles. You’ll gain perspective into what companies are looking for in an employee. Finally, you may learn something about the company and its programs that will help if you apply or interview there.
3. Exclusive Internships & Jobs — Some employers only recruit at career fairs, making it a great way to find opportunities that aren’t broadly advertised. In fact, some employers might favor their local college or alma mater, so they prefer to find employees through college recruitment events.
4. Pitch Practice — The benefit of brief interactions in an informal setting means it’s a low risk way to practice your personal elevator pitch (more on this later). Bottom line, if your pitch seems to get peoples’ attention during a career fair, you may be on to something. If their eyes glaze over halfway through, it might be time to refine your pitch. Either way, the more you do it, the easier it becomes.
5. Networking — You are likely just beginning to build your own professional network. The contacts you make in a career fair are another way to broaden your network.
Feeling nervous? You’re not alone. All the other job seekers are feeling awkward and uncomfortable. It’s hard to put yourself out there in a new environment.
Wondering if the recruiters actually want to talk to you? Recruiters are there to find new employees and meet potential new talent. They are literally there to talk to you! That said, they’re also human beings-- if a recruiter doesn’t seem enthusiastic about you, don’t worry, maybe they’re having a bad day. One mediocre interaction should not dissuade you from pursuing the company if there’s an interesting opportunity.
Feeling annoyed to have to fill out redundant forms for that open position? Sorry, but that happens. If you want to be considered for the job, you have to respect the process. But that doesn’t mean you don’t ALSO get creative. (check out our other posts on this topic!)
Concerned that you don’t know what you want to do when you “grow up”? Welcome to the club—most people don’t. Look at the career fair as a chance to help you get a little more info to help you figure it out.
Feeling overwhelmed by the lines for key employers or the competition in this job market? You have as good a chance as anyone in that room to land a job. Here’s the thing about career fairs…participating may or may not lead to your dream job, but sitting it out leads to…nothing. So you might as well do it!
Our next post will explain what to expect from an In-Person Career Fair and a Virtual Career Fair; and the final part of this series will give you specific strategies to make the event successful.
Worried about your job search? With persistence and a strategic approach, you’ll not only land your first job but also lay the foundation for a fulfilling and successful career. The Career Coaches at The Launchpad Collective are here to help! We specialize in career counseling for new college graduates.
If you’d like to get more creative ideas and pragmatic advice about how to land your first job, contact us at info@thelaunchpadcollective.com. Your career is our mission.
