Job Fairs

Career readiness skills are the everyday skills that help you succeed at any job, no matter what you study in school. The National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) names eight of them: Career & Self-Development, Communication, Critical Thinking, Equity & Inclusion, Leadership, Professionalism, Teamwork, and Technology.

These skills matter because they're often what gets you hired, paid more, and promoted faster. The best part is you're already building these skills right now through class, work-study, or clubs, and Career Services can help you get even better at them.

Did you know that research shows at least 60–85% of jobs are filled through networking? (LinkedIn, HR Dive) Whether you're attending a job fair, information session, or other networking event, these are opportunities to connect with employers, let your skills and experiences shine, and explore real possibilities.

A networking event is any opportunity to connect with employers, professionals, or peers in your field of interest. Think of it as relationship-building that can open doors to jobs, internships, and career advice you might not find online.

Some common ones:

Job Fairs: Meet multiple employers in one place (in-person or virtual). Browse opportunities, make connections, and get your name in front of recruiters.

Information Sessions: Hosted by a specific employer or industry. Great for learning about a company's culture, roles, and what they look for in candidates.

Alumni & Industry Events: Connect with professionals who've been in your shoes. These are great for advice, mentorship, and expanding your network.

Coffee Chats / Informational Interviews: One-on-one conversations with a professional to learn about their career. Low-pressure, high-value.

Workshops & Seminars: Skill-building events (resume reviews, interview prep) that also put you in a room with employers and peers.

Career Panels: Professionals from a specific industry or field share their career paths and take questions. Great for exploration and insight.

Professional Association Meetings: Industry-specific groups that meet regularly. Good for ongoing relationship-building.

Career Services hosts many!

In addition to checking on the Career Services page, you can also review:

• The college's events calendar
• Information shared by your faculty
• On Handshake
• On LinkedIn
• Industry association websites
• Alumni networks
• Local chambers of commerce

Need help finding more? Reach out to us in Career Services at [email protected].

First - yes, it is completely okay to be nervous. Most people are. Even seasoned professionals feel it. The goal isn't to be perfect; it's to show up and make at least one genuine connection.

Before the event:

• Do a little research: Know who's attending and identify two or three employers or people you'd like to connect with. A little prep goes a long way.
• Prepare your elevator pitch: Know who's attending and identify two or three employers or people you'd like to connect with. A little prep goes a long way.
• Bring your resume: Especially for in-person events, polish your resume and print out a handful of copies!
• Think of questions you want to ask: Curiosity goes a long way. It shows that you are interested and engaged.
• Show up as your professional, authentic self: First impressions matter. Joining virtually? Please turn on your video, if you can. Not sure what to wear? Think of what is appropriate for your field. Still not sure? Aim for at least business casual.

At the event:

• Be on time: This gives you the chance to build confidence, test your technology (if virtual), and make a great first impression.
• It's okay to take a breath: Step aside, collect yourself, and jump back in when you're ready.

After the event:

• Follow up: A short LinkedIn message or email within 24–48 hours goes a long way. Thank them, reference your conversation, and stay connected.

Following up is where networking really pays off, and most people skip this step. Some ideas below:

Do it quickly: Follow up within 24–48 hours while the conversation is still fresh for both of you. A short, genuine message is all it takes.

Connect on LinkedIn or Handshake: Send a connection request with a brief personal note. Don't just use the default message. Reference something specific from your conversation so they remember you. Example: Hi [Name], it was great speaking with you at [event] yesterday. I really enjoyed hearing about your work in [field]. I'd love to stay connected!""

Send a thank-you email: If you have their contact info, a short email goes a long way. Keep it simple. Thank them for their time, mention something memorable from your conversation, and express your interest in staying in touch or learning more.See example below

Stay engaged over time: Following up isn't a one-time thing. Like or comment on their LinkedIn posts, share relevant articles, or check in occasionally. Relationships grow over time.

Be specific if you have a next step: If they offered to share a job posting, connect you with someone, or review your résumé, reference it directly and make it easy for them to follow through.

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Sample Thank You Email

Dear [Employer Name],

Thank you for taking the time to connect with me at [event] on [date]. I enjoyed learning more about [company name] and your work in [industry/area].

I especially appreciated our conversation about [something specific]. It gave me a clearer picture of [role/career path/company culture].

I'm very interested in opportunities with your organization and would welcome the chance to stay connected.

Thank you again for your time.

Best,

[Your Name]

[CCRI Program or Major]

[Your Email]