Get the Most Out of Your Career Fair Experience
Before the Fair
- Download the Handshake App & Update your Handshake profile
- Download Handshake Mobile App to view employers
- Update your profile & major (this will ensure your name tag prints what you want and not Undecided or Pre-Business undeclared)
- Students who complete their Handshake profile are 5 times more likely to be messaged by employers.
- Remember to add work experience and organizations, too.
- By having the Handshake app downloaded you can easily check-in to employer booths during the fair.
- Feature Your Resume on Your Handshake Profile
- Once you upload your resume, set it to visible. This allows employers to seek you out for opportunities and for you to apply for opportunities through Handshake.
- Research Companies Attending the Fair
- Review companies attending the fair on Handshake – Events – search Career Fair you will be attending – View all Employers
- Pick the companies you want to visit. Study their company website or LinkedIn page.
- Favorite companies in Handshake.
- Take notes and prepare questions to ask recruiters. (“What do you like most about working at ABC Company?”)
- Prepare your Personal Pitch
- Plan your professional dress wardrobe
- Visit the Career Closet – Student Success Center Suite 125 for four FREE items of professional dress each semester!
- Watch these great videos
- Career Fair Success
- Michigan Tech has a great first timers video linked at the bottom of the page, the information share here is great for any career fair!
During the Fair
- Prioritize the companies your want to visit.
- While you’re waiting in line, study your notes and questions for the company.
- Greet employers with a smile, an acceptable handshake, and your elevator pitch.
- Ask questions to engage in conversations.
- When talking to a company rep, highlight key points on résumé.
- Ask the representative for a business card or their contact information.
- Thank the recruiter for their time.
- After you walk away, make notes about your conversation for follow-up after the fair.
After the Fair
- Make sure your voicemail is professional.
- Check your phone messages and email.
- Follow-up with a thank you message within 48 hours of the fair.
- Look for other opportunities to network with the employer on campus.
- Future Career Fairs
- Visits with student organizations
UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN OSHKOSH
Career & Professional Development
(920) 424-2181
career@uwosh.eduStudent Success Center, Suite 125
750 Elmwood Ave.
Oshkosh, WI 54901
Oshkosh Campus
- M–F: 7:45 a.m.–4:30 p.m.
Fox Cities Campus Advisor Hours
- Fox Cities Hours:
- Schedule appointments via Handshake
- Services only offered when classes are in session during the fall and spring terms.