How to Make a Career Fair Work for You!
1. Learn who’s coming ahead of time.
You can see the list of companies that have registered on Handshake. Narrow the list down to those of most interest and begin to research their products/services and employment opportunities.
2. Prepare a 30-second commercial.
Career fairs offer only brief contact with organizations, so be prepared to make the most of your time. Work up an interesting verbal summary of your background, achievements and career interests so you won’t fumble over words at the wrong time. See our page for how to write 30-Second Commercials by clicking HERE!
3. Dress the part.
How you look will play a big part in determining employer interest. At a minimum, business casual attire is expected at the Career Fair. Of course, if you have a suit, that would make an even stronger first impression. Click HERE for more information on professional attire!
4. Arrive early and plan to stay late.
Make sure the employer knows that they are #1 on your list and then follow through with other employers that you like. Use the remainder of the day to visit other organizations that may interest you.
5. Take the right tools with you.
Bring a supply of resumes to circulate (on resume paper), an attractive pen, and a pad of paper. Bring your reference list just in case someone asks for it. Click Resumes!
6. Know what you are going to ask.
Try to have one or two questions in mind for each employer that reflects the research you have done on their organization.
7. Learn what’s going to happen next.
As you leave each employer, learn what happens next and what, if anything, you should do to advance your candidacy.
8. Follow-up.
If there is any follow-up work necessary (in the form of thank-you letters, reference letters or other
materials to be sent), be sure to follow through on your discussion within 24 hours. Click HERE to learn more about writing Thank-You Letters.
How to Register for a Virtual Career Fair
Step 1: Log in to Handshake
Login to your Handshake account at olemiss.joinhandshake.com with your student e-mail and password.
Step 2: Find the Event
Click the “Events tab at the top of the page. Once you are redirected, select “Career Fairs”
Step 3: Find Your Career Fair
Click on the fair that you wish to attend. After you have chosen the fair, select “Register” at the top, right-hand corner.
Step 4: Choose Your Time Slots
When you register for a virtual career fair on Handshake, you sign up for specific session times—securing your spot to meet with the employers you’re interested in. Browse through available sessions and register for a specific time to talk to certain companies!