How do I Prepare for an Education Career Fair?

An education career fair is a great way to meet employers, learn more about the job market, and market yourself as a potential job candidate who can fill the needs of an educational institution. Preparing properly for an education career fair involves getting your resumé in order, dressing well, and researching the different educational institutions that will be present at the fair. You may want to consider outlining which institutions you are most interested in approaching and making them a priority when you arrive. Remember that your presence there is a marketing tool, so you need to look and act your best.

Have printed copies of your resumé ready to be handed out when you arrive at the education career fair. This is an important tool for ensuring an employer remembers you after the fair is over, and you should present your resumé in such a way that you are being respectful and engaging with the employer. The goal is to have them remember you after they have seen hundreds of job seekers all day, so be kind, professional, and assertive. Be ready to discuss relevant education issues, especially as they pertain to that particular educational institution. Employers at an education career fair are looking for job candidates who have their fingers on the pulse of educational issues, so be sure to present yourself as one of those people.

Be familiar not only with the institutions, but also with your own resumé. This will help you highlight your most relevant experience and skills carefully and eloquently in the short amount of time you will have to make an impression on the employer. Practice answering common questions you are likely to hear from potential employers, and be ready to highlight skills and experience on your resumé for them. Collect business cards and other information so you can be prepared for a job interview should you obtain one. It is important to treat the education career fair as a job interview as well, as this fair will allow employers to get a positive first impression of you before a real interview even takes place.

Remember that you must be positive, even if you feel defeated or stressed. Always highlight the most positive aspects about education and avoid controversial topics that may lead to a conversation about negative aspects of education. Avoid talking badly about other educational institutions or any bad experiences you have had in the past, since this will give the employer the wrong impression, and you may be overheard by others who disagree with you.