It is a great opportunity to develop your presentation skills, showcasing your interest and making meaningful connections. Therefore find here a quick guide that will help you shine and stand-out.
Set up your target: Do some research: which companies are joining? What kind of projects and vacancies are related to your interests? What is the company culture? Does any company stands out from the list? Make a mind map where you write down the companies you are interested on and why, including questions you would like to ask them.
Get yourself ready: think about your pitch, what do you want to communicate based on your interests? And I am not just talking about your speech, but also your outfit and non-verbal language. Find a balance between professionality and your own personality, which makes you unique. Think about for example: your favourite colour and apply it in different aspects such as in your CV, or a garment of your outfit.
Practice: Try to practice with a friend or family member prior to the fair so you feel comfortable in the day of the event. Don’t forget to sign up for any additional event such as a workshop or lecture. Have your LinkedIn profile ready to share, you could make use of their QR code feature (life saver) also print some copies of your CV.
Go, play: During the day of the event first go around the venue and identify your points of attention and make a plan of the day, have a drink of water and some fresh air and start your conversation. Getting very crowded? You can always reschedule if someone you are waiting for is busy. Don’t forget to take breaks in between and important: make notes! When you get to meet someone, make sure you start the conversation with a friendly hand shake if possible and maintain eye contact. Always stay true to yourself and keep in mind that you are investing in creating new connections.
Follow up: Take some time to process and organize the information and contacts you gathered during the event, sometimes it is too much and you want to take things step by step. It is a great start to send a thank you note, including in one sentence what you appreciate from the event.
Summing up, a career fair is it a great opportunity to connect and create meaningful networks, showcase your skills and uncover new career opportunities.
Don’t forget to also reach out to your nearest Career Centre if you would like to get more information or guidance.
Mariana Perez Contreras
Business and Relations TU Delft
4tu career special 2024
This article appeared in the 4TU Career Special 2024. Read the entire magazine
