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Looking for some university career fair tips? Not surprised, they are one of the most powerful events of your university journey — but most students don’t take full advantage of them.
Whether you’re looking for internships, graduate schemes, or insight days, career fairs can open doors if you prepare smartly and follow up effectively.
Let’s see how to make every conversation count.
Why Career Fairs Still Matter Nowadays
Despite the rise of online job boards and LinkedIn networking, in-person career fairs remain the most impactful way to meet employers face-to-face and make an impression that goes beyond your CV.
A study by AGCAS found that employers still view university fairs as a top way to identify promising candidates and showcase opportunities to diverse student audiences.
Step 1: Prepare Like a Pro 🧠
Before you even step into the fair, do your homework.
✅ Research employers in advance
Most universities publish a list of attending companies online. Check each one’s career page — especially for graduate schemes or internships relevant to your degree.
✅ Tailor your CV
Bring printed copies of a concise, targeted CV (one page is ideal). Highlight transferable skills, key achievements, and university projects.
✅ Prepare your elevator pitch
Practice a 30-second introduction that covers who you are, what you study, and what you’re looking for. Confidence comes from preparation, not improvisation.
✅ Dress smart-casual
You don’t need to wear a suit, but dress neatly and professionally — first impressions matter.
Step 2: Network Effectively 🤝
Networking at career fairs isn’t about collecting as many business cards as possible — it’s about building real connections.
How to start a conversation:
- “I’m interested in applying for your internship. What kind of projects do students usually work on?”
- “Hi, I’ve been following your graduate scheme — could you tell me what skills you value most?”
Be curious, not rehearsed. Ask thoughtful questions about the company culture, training, or career progression.
And yes — confidence helps, but authenticity matters more. Employers remember enthusiasm and sincerity far longer than buzzwords.
🎯 Pro Career Fair Tip: Take short notes after each chat so you remember who said what when following up later.
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Step 3: The Follow-Up That Seals the Deal ✉️
The fair might end, but your opportunity doesn’t. Most students forget this crucial step.
Here’s your post-fair checklist:
- 💌 Send thank-you emails within 48 hours.
- 🔗 Connect with recruiters or company reps on LinkedIn.
- 🗓️ Reference your conversation — e.g. “It was great speaking with you about the data graduate programme at the Manchester Careers Fair.”
- 📄 Keep an organised spreadsheet of contacts, deadlines, and next steps.
👉 Recommended: Check Out Our Guide on How To Make a Great Student LinkedIn Profile.
⚙️ Maximise Your Career Fair -Strategy Table
| Stage | What To Do | Pro Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Before the Fair | Research top employers, update CV, plan your questions | Prioritise 5-10 companies, print spare CVs |
| During the Fair | Be confident, start conversations, take notes | Smile, shake hands, be genuine |
| After the Fair | Send thank-yous, connect on LinkedIn, apply promptly | Mention specifics from your chat |
Common Mistakes to Avoid 🚫
- Chasing freebies instead of conversations. The tote bag won’t get you an interview!
- Not preparing questions. Recruiters can tell who’s winging it.
- Skipping smaller employers. Many hidden-gem companies offer incredible graduate pathways.
- Forgetting to follow up. That’s where most opportunities are lost.
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University Career Fair Tips, Final Thoughts 💡
Your university career fair isn’t just another event — it’s your first step toward your professional future. The key to standing out isn’t having the “perfect” pitch, but showing curiosity, initiative, and genuine enthusiasm.
Remember, recruiters meet hundreds of students — but few follow up. Be one of them. We hope you’ve found our university career fair tips useful, best of luck!
Next Up → Want to learn more career tips for university students? Don’t miss our upcoming post:
📘 “How to Network Professionally at University”
FAQs: University Career Fairs UK
Check your university’s careers website or app — most publish the exhibitor list 2–3 weeks before the fair.
Yes — some employers still prefer paper copies for quick review, though many now accept QR codes or digital profiles too.
Introduce yourself confidently, mention your course, and ask about opportunities or company values. Keep it conversational, not rehearsed.
Absolutely! Prepare a few openers and focus on genuine conversations rather than “working the room.”
Send personalised LinkedIn invites or thank-you emails, referencing your discussion. Follow up with any applications before the posted deadline.
Quality beats quantity. Aim for 5–8 meaningful conversations rather than 20 rushed ones.
Not preparing questions — or treating it like a freebie hunt. Recruiters notice who’s genuinely engaged.
Extra Student Career Fair Tips
- Recruiters at Jobs.ac.uk note that consistent, polite follow-ups can significantly improve your chances of being shortlisted.
- Prospects.ac.uk recommends arriving early, mapping the room layout, and prioritising your top-choice employers first.
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