Looking for a job? One of the classic methods to fining one is to attend a local job fair. You’ll get employers from a variety of industries hiring for many different types of positions. By attending job fairs, it gives you the chance to have face-to-face contact instead of settling for just completing online applications. Despite that personal connection, it can still be hard to stand out since you’ll be one of many job seekers and only have a few minutes to talk with each company. To distinguish yourself from the crowd, follow these four steps to land your next job.

1 - Research Companies

For most job fairs, the information on participating companies will be available online. Take advantage of this and research the companies that interest you. From a company’s website, you’ll be able to find information on what they do, the positions they have available as well as general company knowledge that you can use to demonstrate your interest. From there, you’ll be able to have a more meaningful and in-depth conversation. But don’t stop with just repeating company information to the recruiter, bring some relevant and unique questions to really show your initiative.

2 - Practice Your Pitch

You won’t get much time with any one company, so you need to make a good impression quickly. Before attending the fair, prepare a quick pitch that summarizes who you are, your skills and your career goals. This is the time to promote yourself to prospective employers. You should memorize your pitch, but it also shouldn’t sound robotic. The more confidence you have when delivering it, the better your chances are of getting an interview. So when you get to the job fair, begin with a firm handshake, maintain good eye contact and use a clear voice to provide the employer with concise and relevant information about yourself.

3 - Arrive Early & Prepared

Job fairs can get busy, so if you have a limited amount of time and a list of companies that you’d like to talk with, it is good to arrive as early as possible. Depending on the size of facility the job fair is being hosted at, they may also offer a floor plan that you can use to quickly find the booths that interest you.

Similar to any other activities related to a job search, you should come prepared. This means being dressed in professional attire and bringing copies of your resume. You should also bring some pens and a notepad so you can jot down some notes after meeting with each company. Don’t forget to take business cards; it can be hard to remember everyone that you meet.

4 - Follow Up

 After the job fair is over, reconnect with the recruiters that you spoke with. You should thank them for their time and reiterate your interest in working at their company. It doesn’t have to be a detailed letter, a simple handwritten note or personalized email will do the job.

Want to attend a local job fair? QPS hosts and attends job fairs throughout the entire year across all our Midwest locations. If you’re looking for work, see what hiring events we have available near you!