How to Prepare for a Career Fair
How to Prepare for a Career Fair is a Villanova resource that helps students get ready before, during, and after a career fair. The guide explains how to research employers, prepare materials, practice an introduction, navigate the fair, speak with representatives, and follow up professionally.
Before the fair, students should:
- Learn more about the fair on Handshake
- Review the list of participating employers
- Filter employers by major, job type, class year, and other categories
- For in-person fairs, use the Handshake app to view employers on a map
- For virtual fairs, sign up for 1:1 conversations with companies in advance
- Research organizations through their websites, LinkedIn, social media, news, and alumni connections
- Create a list of companies to visit and prioritize the top three
- Dress professionally and visit the Wildcat Wardrobe if professional attire is needed
- Prepare a resume as a PDF for virtual fairs or printed on resume paper for in-person fairs
- Practice an elevator pitch that explains who you are, what you are seeking, what you know about the company, and how you add value
- For virtual fairs, choose a distraction-free environment with a neutral background
During the fair, students should:
- Use the app to locate employers at an in-person fair
- Avoid visiting their top-choice company first so they can practice their pitch with other employers
- Leave coats, backpacks, and extra items at the door when possible
- Smile, offer a firm handshake when appropriate, and ask follow-up questions
- Sign into virtual sessions on time
- Notify the representative or Career Center in advance if they must miss a virtual session
- Ask representatives for a business card or contact information
- Take quick notes after each conversation to use in a follow-up email
After the fair, students should:
- Send a thoughtful and personalized thank you email within 24 hours
- Mention something specific from the conversation to show interest
- Complete any next steps the representative suggested, such as applying online or contacting another person at the company
- Continue checking the Events and Jobs sections of Handshake for additional recruiting opportunities
Students can use this guide to make the most of both in-person and virtual career fairs and to approach employer conversations with more confidence and preparation.
