On your marks, get set, go network: Your career fair gameplan

It’s career fair season, and the Industry Career Fair is just around the corner on Sept. 23. Whether you’re actively job hunting or simply exploring options, it’s never too early to start preparing.

Over the years, the purpose of career fairs have shifted—they aren’t just about landing a job on the spot. These days, they’re one of the best ways to build your network, connect directly with recruiters, and discover which skills and experiences employers are looking for. In a competitive job market, these insights can give you an edge when it comes time to apply.

To help you make the most of the experience, we asked the career development advisors at the Centre for Career and Personal Development (CCPD) to share their top tips. Here’s what they recommend:

1. Dress and act the part

First impressions do matter. You don’t have to wear dress clothes, but clean, wrinkle-free clothes, decent shoes, and a simple folder or bag can make a great first impression. Ditch the bulky backpack in your locker if you can.

Tip: Body language is equally important in a professional appearance. Good posture, firm handshakes and eye contact can help you appear confident and competent, even if, deep down, you’re nervous!

2. Do your homework

Review the list of exhibitors in advance and choose your top five. Check their websites, note whether they’re hiring, and skim a few job postings. Employers remember students who come prepared with knowledge and curiosity.

Tip: Not every company attending will be recruiting. By researching in advance, you can decide which booths are the best use of your time.

3. Update your resume (and your LinkedIn)

Before you head to career fair, take a moment to look over your resume and make sure it’s up to date with your current education and work, extracurricular or volunteer experience. Not only does it help you keep your documents current, it also gives you a great refresher on what skills or experiences you can highlight. 

It never hurts to have a couple printed resumes with you, but don't be discouraged if recruiters aren't taking physical copies on the spot. That's why it’s equally important to either create or update your LinkedIn profile, in case you end up making great connections with peers, potential mentors, or recruiters. 

4. Set goals

A few simple, measurable goals can help you maintain focus when browsing the career fair floor, so you can walk away feeling accomplished. Here are some ideas:

• making three new connections
• learning three things about a company
• arranging three informational interviews

5. Arrive early

The first hour is usually the quietest, and recruiters are fresh and ready to engage. Arriving early helps you avoid long waits and shows you are serious about the event.

6. Introduce yourself—naturally

You don’t need a script. Smile, make eye contact, and begin with something simple such as, “How is your day going?” Then move into your questions or introduction.

Have a 30-second “elevator pitch” ready that covers who you are, what you study, and what interests you. Keep a couple of versions handy so you can adapt depending on the company.

Sample intros you can try:

• “Hello, my name is ___ and I’m a [first, second, etc.]-year [undergraduate/graduate] student studying ___ in the Faculty of ___. Good to meet you. I looked at your website and read about your company. You’ve just begun a big project related to ___ and I’m really interested in this. I am wondering what types of employment opportunities might result from it.”
• “Hi, my name is ___ and I’m taking ___ (major and/or degree). I am in my ___ year of study. I enjoy [top skills] and am exploring what I can do in my career. I am open to options and interested in learning more about ___ (their company name).”

7. Ask thoughtful questions

Prepare a few in advance to show employers you're motivated and genuinely interested in their company. 

Try these examples:

• “What's a project your team is excited about right now?”
• “What skills would help me stand out here?”
• “Does your company offer student internships or co-op placements?”

Tip: Jot down a list of questions before the fair so you can keep the conversation flowing.

8. Highlight your value

Be ready to share some information about your program, interests and career goals. Talk about your skills and highlight (or ask employers) how they might connect to the company’s work. 

Recruiters aren’t just looking for a skills match. Oftentimes, what can set candidates apart is enthusiasm and potential company culture fit—talk about the things that excite you about school, hobbies or what the company does.

9. Take notes

After each conversation, jot down or make a note on your phone with:

• the company name
• the recruiter’s name and job title
• answers to your questions

These notes will help when you’re tailoring future applications and cover letters.

10. Play the long game

Career fairs are about building relationships, not landing a job on the spot. Focus on learning, making connections and leaving a positive impression. A strong conversation now could turn into an opportunity months down the road.