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Career fairs offer students an opportunity to connect with employers, learn about career paths, build professional relationships, and discover new opportunities. Whether you’re attending in person or virtually, these 10 tips will help you prepare and stand out.

Ready to apply for a role? Visit our Early Careers page to explore opportunities.

Tip 1: Research employers before the event

Review the list of employers and identify your top choices. Visit their websites, LinkedIn pages, Handshake profiles, and recent news to learn about their: services, culture, opportunities, office locations, and career paths so you can have more meaningful conversations.

Tip 2: Keep an open mind

A list of target employers is a good starting point, but don’t stop there. Keep an open mind as you navigate the event, stopping to have conversations and meeting others that stand out to you in the moment.

Tip 3: Update your resume and online profiles

Bring several copies of your current resume and make sure your LinkedIn and Handshake profiles reflect your latest contact information, relevant coursework, projects, experience, skills, certifications, graduation date, and location preferences.

Keep a digital copy of your resume ready to quickly email, upload, or share with recruiters during the event.

Tip 4: Dress confidently and comfortably

Choose clean, polished, business-casual clothing. Wear comfortable shoes and bring a professional folder or bag for your resumes and other materials so you can focus on conversations rather than distractions.

Tip 5: Prepare a strong introduction

Recruiters speak with hundreds of students during career fairs. Prepare a brief, conversational introduction around 30 seconds that covers your major, career interests, and a relevant project, experience, or accomplishment. Aim for a natural conversation rather than a rehearsed script.

Tip 6: Show confidence and professionalism

Treat every interaction like a brief interview. Introduce yourself confidently, maintain good eye contact, listen carefully, stay engaged, and keep your phone out of sight during conversations.

Tip 7: Forget about one-sided conversations

Career fairs work best when conversations go both ways. Ask about experiences, mentoring, projects, career growth, and the skills that help early-career professionals succeed. Focus on questions that go beyond information already available online.

Tip 8: Take notes and follow up

After each conversation, take a moment to jot down the recruiter’s name and contact information, what was discussed, and something memorable.

If appropriate, ask to connect on LinkedIn or get the recruiter’s email address to send a brief, personalized follow-up within 24–48 hours.

Tip 9: Don’t forget about relationships

Career fairs aren’t only about landing interviews. They’re an opportunity to grow your network, learn what employers value, practice talking about your experience, and make connections that may help throughout your career

Be professional with everyone you meet, including recruiters, employees, faculty members, and other students.

Tip 10: Apply promptly

A conversation with a recruiter doesn’t replace an application. If you’re directed to apply for a position, complete the application as soon as possible. In-demand internships and entry-level positions can attract a lot of interest and may close quickly.

Ready to put these tips into practice?

At Salas O’Brien, early-career talent plays an important role in our future. In 2026, we welcomed 200+ interns and earned a 90% favorability rating for our internship experience. Review Salas O’Brien’s career-fair schedule.

Can’t make it to a fair Salas O’Brien is attending? Check out our Early Careers page to explore internships and early-career opportunities and apply for a role.