When attending careers fairs and large networking events, recruiters and employers meet a high volume of job seekers in a short space of time. These events work best when conversations are focused, relevant, and respectful of everyone’s time.

The tips below are designed to help both the people behind the stand and the candidates attending get the most value from the experience.

𝟭. 𝗙𝗶𝗿𝘀𝘁 𝗶𝗺𝗽𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝗰𝗼𝘂𝗻𝘁 Dress appropriately for your industry and the roles you’re targeting. Professional, polished, and comfortable. Presentation matters.

𝟮. 𝗟𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗻 𝗵𝗼𝘄 𝘁𝗼 𝗽𝗶𝘁𝗰𝗵 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿𝘀𝗲𝗹𝗳 𝗾𝘂𝗶𝗰𝗸𝗹𝘆 Be able to clearly explain who you are, what you do, and what you’re looking for in under a minute. Practice it in the mirror. Clarity and confidence make a big difference. Maintain eye-contact, and have a firm handshake.

𝟯. 𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗿𝗼𝗼𝗺 Recruiters/employers are often managing long queues. Be aware of what’s happening around you and respectful of time, especially if others are waiting.

𝟰. 𝗗𝗼𝗻’𝘁 𝗵𝗼𝗴 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗰𝗼𝗻𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻! These events aren’t for full interviews. Make your point quickly, exchange details if requested, and move on. If the recruiter can help you, they'll arrange another call with you.

𝟱. 𝗨𝘀𝗲 𝗲𝗺𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗶𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗹𝗹𝗶𝗴𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 If a recruiter seems rushed or signals that time is limited, wrap up professionally.

𝟲. 𝗗𝗼𝗻’𝘁 𝘁𝗮𝗸𝗲 '𝗿𝗲𝗷𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻' 𝗽𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹𝗹𝘆 If a recruiter tells you you’re not the right fit for their niche, it’s not a judgement on your ability. Recruiters specialise, and your skills may be better suited to another recruiter, so don't waste your time or theirs.

𝟳. 𝗧𝗮𝗹𝗸 𝘁𝗼 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗿𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁 𝗽𝗲𝗼𝗽𝗹𝗲 Time is precious at large events. Focus on recruiters who genuinely cover your sector, function, and level. Be open to redirection - Recruiters may point you towards someone better suited to your background.

Careers fairs and large networking events can open doors — but only when they’re approached with intention. Clear communication, self-awareness and respect for time go a long way. When both candidates and recruiters focus on quality conversations rather than quantity, these events become far more valuable for everyone involved.