Prepare for the Fair

Make the most of your careers fair experience!

Careers fairs are an excellent opportunity to have real conversations with employers, uncovering hidden prospects, and building connections that could lead to your next graduate role. The key? A little preparation, a lot of confidence, and the right follow-up moves. Here’s how to stand out before, during, and after the fair.

Before the Fair: Get career-ready

Do your homework

Check out the employer list before the fair and do some research on the companies that spark your interest by looking at LinkedIn profiles, company websites, social media accounts, library databases, etc..

Look up what roles they offer (like grad programs or entry-level roles), learn about their culture, and note anything that excites you.

Perfect your elevator pitch

Prepare a 30–60 second intro about yourself: who you are, what you’re studying, what you’re passionate about, and what you’re looking for. Keep it clear, confident, uniquely you, and end with an open-ended question for the employer to keep the conversation going.

Example:
"Hi! My name is Alex West. I’m currently in my second year of a Bachelor of Design, majoring in Architecture and Construction. I’ve especially enjoyed my subjects in construction design, with a strong interest in environmental building systems and sustainability. Recently, I completed work experience with Green Sheep Collective, where I was involved in site research and helped prepare client presentation materials for a multi-residential project. This experience deepened my appreciation for how sustainable practices are integrated into real-world architectural design. I’m now looking for graduate opportunities where I can continue learning and contribute meaningfully, particularly in digital design. I am interested learning more about the graduate opportunities available with Architectus Group, particularly in the digital design space."

Dress for success

First impressions count. Aim for smart-casual or business professional attire: something that makes you feel confident and comfortable.

Plan your questions

Skip the generic stuff, ask insightful questions about team culture, growth opportunities, and what makes a successful candidate. Employers love curious minds; demonstrate you’ve done your research! Here are some examples of good and insightful (better) questions according to your career mapping phase .

Discover

Good: "You want to be carbon neutral by 2027. Can you tell me more about that?"

Insightful: "It was great to hear about your initiative to be carbon neutral by 2027, it really stood out to me. Could you share how that commitment influences the way the teams work or make decisions day-to-day within the company?"

This version of the insightful question goes beyond repeating what you heard/read – it connects values to practical impact, showing critical thinking and genuine interest.

Focus

Good: "What are the top skills you are looking for?"

Insightful: "I noticed that innovation is one of the top skills you assess. Could you share how past applicants have effectively demonstrated that through the application process?"

This insightful question shows that you’ve done your research and are thinking strategically about how to tailor your application – exactly the kind of curiosity and preparation employers value.

Apply

Good: "What is the process for applying for your graduate program?"

Insightful: "I'm very interested in applying for the X graduate role. I noticed that part of the application process involves an assessment centre. Do you have any tips on how to stand out or common strengths you look for during that stage?"

This insightful version goes beyond asking for a fact. It shows preparation, genuine interest, and a desire to succeed based on what the employer values.

Sorted

Good: "How does the culture of your organisation differ from others in the industry?"

Insightful: "I noticed on your company’s social channels that cross-functional projects are frequently highlighted. How does that shape the way teams communicate and solve problems together?"

Additionally:

  • Be confident and positive: Make eye contact, smile, and maintain a positive attitude when interacting with recruiters.
  • Engage actively and take notes: Don't be afraid to approach booths, introduce yourself, and ask your prepared questions.

After the fair

  • Make notes on any advice you received
  • Connect with employers you engaged, e.g. LinkedIn message, digital card
  • The Fair is a small representation of opportunities available, so continue to explore and identify other opportunities (including small-to-medium sized enterprises)
  • Get more active in the professional online space
  • Review notes: Reflect on the information gathered and identify potential job opportunities or companies of interest
  • Update your profile: Ensure your online profile reflects your experiences and career goals in a way that resembles your resume
  • Careers and Employability can assist with your job search with online tools, workshops and career appointments!