Job fairs have gotten a bad rap, partly because career seekers don’t often leave these events with an offer in-hand. Unfortunately, this short-term mentality can dissuade job seekers from considering the potential value of career fairs. These traditional events can be important tools in your job search.

The Importance of Job Fairs
So if you aren’t one of those lucky few who ink a job deal on the spot, why should you attend a career fair? If used correctly, these gatherings can be very effective in landing your dream job. Here are seven ways to use career fairs to help you find your next employer.

1. Conduct research.
   Identify the companies that you are interested in beforehand and use the introduction to the recruiter to find out more information about the company, the position you are interested in and what they are looking for in a new employee.
2. Network.
   Use the meeting with each company as an opportunity to build your network. Share your goals and experience with the recruiters and fellow attendees you meet in line. What starts as chit-chat can lead to learning about new opportunities.
3. Practice, practice, practice.
   You can use the job fair as a tune up for a more formal interview. Prepare a brief commercial about yourself and make a note of the questions that the recruiter asks of you. The recruiter’s reaction and follow up questions will help you fine tune your personal “pitch.”
4. Ask the recruiter about next steps.
   At the close of the meeting, get the recruiter’s business card and find out how and when you should follow up.
5. Take notes after each meeting.
   Make sure to jot down a few notes about the person you met with and what was said about the position and the company. These notes will help you to remember who to follow up with and will be useful in writing thank-you notes and preparing for your formal interview. 
6. Dress appropriately.
   You only get one opportunity to make a first impression. Treat these meetings like an interview and wear conservative, business attire.
7. Find out “what’s out there” and what they are looking for.
   Some companies will be looking to fill existing positions, while others will be looking to collect resumes for future openings. Gather information about both existing and future hiring needs.