Career fairs can be overwhelming — rows of employer booths, tons of free swag, and recruiters everywhere! But they’re also packed with opportunities to kick-start your career and make connections that could define your future. So, how do you stand out and make the most of these events? We’ve got you covered with these tips for navigating a career fair like a pro. 

1. Prepare Ahead of Time 

Before you step into the career fair, make sure you're prepared. Research the companies attending and find out which ones align with your career interests. Knowing who you want to talk to and what they’re about can save you time and help you focus on quality conversations. 

Pro Tip: Have a "target list" of the top 5 companies you want to connect with. Visit their websites and jot down a few questions that show you've done your homework. 

2. Dress the Part 

First impressions matter! While career fairs might feel casual, the recruiters are scouting for future employees. A polished look can make a difference when you're trying to stand out among hundreds of students. 

Pro Tip: Go for business casual or professional attire. It’s not just about looking good—it shows you’re taking the opportunity seriously. 

3. Bring Your Resume (and a Backup Plan) 

Your resume is your calling card, so make sure it’s on point. Bring multiple copies to hand out to recruiters, but also have a digital version ready to send on the spot. Not every recruiter will accept paper resumes, and some may prefer you apply online. 

Pro Tip: Save your resume as a PDF on your phone so you can easily email it to recruiters on the go. Double-check it’s free from typos and tailored to the industry or job you’re targeting. 

4. Master Your Elevator Pitch 

When you approach a recruiter, you’ll need a quick intro ready to go. Your elevator pitch should be about 30 seconds long and explain who you are, what you’re studying, and why you're interested in their company. The goal is to leave a lasting impression and start a deeper conversation. 

Pro Tip: Practice your pitch until it sounds natural. Keep it conversational, not robotic. 

5. Ask Questions That Matter 

Recruiters hear a lot of the same questions over and over. Stand out by asking thoughtful questions that show you’ve done your research and are genuinely interested in their company. Think beyond the basics like "What does your company do?" and ask about company culture, growth opportunities, or what they value in employees. 

Pro Tip: Examples of good questions include, "What does professional development look like at your company?" or "How does your team approach innovation in the ag industry?" 

6. Network with Intent 

Career fairs are about more than just scoring a job—they’re prime opportunities to network. Even if you’re not sure about working at a particular company, introducing yourself to recruiters can open doors down the road. Don’t be afraid to connect on LinkedIn after the event and follow up with a thank you note. 

Pro Tip: When you reach out on LinkedIn, include a personal message to remind them who you are and what you talked about. 

Need some networking tips? Read Networking 101: Your Ultimate Guide to Making Genuine Connections 

7. Don’t Forget to Follow Up 

After the career fair, the work isn't over. Reach out to recruiters you spoke with within 24-48 hours to thank them for their time and reiterate your interest in their company. This follow-up is crucial and shows you’re serious about pursuing opportunities with them. 

Pro Tip: Keep it short and sweet in your follow-up. Mention something specific from your conversation to jog their memory and make your message more personal. 

8. Be Open-Minded 

Maybe you came into the career fair laser-focused on one company, but don’t limit yourself! Sometimes the best opportunities come from unexpected places. Be open to learning about companies you hadn’t considered before—your future might look different than you think. 

Pro Tip: Approach at least one company that wasn’t on your original target list. You might be surprised by what they have to offer! 

9. Be Confident, Not Pushy 

While it's important to be assertive, don't be overly aggressive. Let recruiters lead the conversation at times and be respectful of their time. Confidence is key, but overconfidence can come across as pushy. 

Pro Tip: Read the recruiter’s body language. If they seem rushed or distracted, ask for their business card and follow up later. 

10. Stay Organized 

You’ll likely speak to a lot of different companies, so it’s important to keep track of who you talked to and what you discussed. After you leave each booth, take a few notes on your phone to help you remember key points about the company and recruiter. These notes will come in handy when you’re doing follow-up emails or deciding which companies to apply to. 

Pro Tip: Create a spreadsheet with the company names, recruiter contacts, and key takeaways from your conversations. You’ll be thankful when it’s time to send out thank-you notes or decide where to apply. 

Navigating a career fair can feel like a lot, but with the right preparation and mindset, it’s an invaluable opportunity to connect with potential employers, build your network and explore career paths in agriculture. Whether you're seeking internships, full-time roles, or just looking to expand your network, career fairs are a stepping stone toward your future. 

And hey, if you’re attending the AFA Leaders Conference, you’ll have a chance to meet industry professionals from across the country at the Opportunity Fair. Bring your A-game and make the most of every opportunity! 

Good luck out there! 

Final Pro Tip: ACTUALLY APPLY FOR JOBS AND INTERNSHIPS. You talked to these wonderful people, trust us, some of them are watching for you name. Take the time to submit applications for the companies you liked. Can’t find a role you like with them? Circle back to Tip 7, the individual’s you interacted with can point you in the right direction!