may job fair 2019

[OJuniper]

Absolutely, a May job fair can be a fantastic opportunity if you approach it with a clear strategy. The key is to treat it like a series of mini-interviews, not just a casual walk-around. Before the event, research the companies that will be attending and prioritize your target list. I always spend at least two hours studying their recent news, open positions, and company culture. Then, tailor your resume and elevator pitch to match their needs. At the fair, focus on quality over quantity—aim for meaningful conversations with 5–8 recruiters rather than handing out 30 generic resumes.

A common mistake is failing to follow up. Within 24 hours, send a personalized LinkedIn request or email to each recruiter you spoke with, referencing something specific from your chat. This dramatically increases your chances of moving to the next stage. According to industry data, job seekers who follow up are three times more likely to receive an interview invitation.

Here’s a quick breakdown of typical outcomes from a well-executed job fair:

Metric	Percentage
Candidates who get at least one on-site interview	15–20%
Candidates who receive a callback within 2 weeks	30–35%
Candidates who land a job offer from the fair	5–10%

These numbers are based on aggregated data from career service centers and HR surveys. Remember, the candidate screening process at a job fair is often more informal than a traditional interview, so your ability to communicate clearly and ask thoughtful questions matters a lot. Prepare two or three smart questions about the role or team—this shows genuine interest and sets you apart.

[LeGemma]

I’ve been going to May job fairs for years, and one thing I’ve learned is that your appearance and body language speak louder than your resume. Dress a notch above the industry standard—if everyone wears business casual, go with a suit. Smile, make eye contact, and have a firm handshake. Recruiters remember energy and confidence. Also, carry a small notebook with your key talking points and notes about each company. It helps you stay organized and shows you’re serious. Don’t forget to collect business cards and jot down one detail about each conversation. That little trick makes your follow-up emails feel personal and memorable.

[LaBenjamin]

From my experience, the best way to stand out at a May job fair is to ask a question that shows you’ve done your homework. For example, instead of “What does your company do?” try “I read about your recent expansion into renewable energy—how does that affect the team I’m applying to?” That kind of question immediately moves you from a generic candidate to a thoughtful one. Also, don’t rush your pitch. Speak slowly, highlight one or two key achievements, and then listen. The best conversations are two-way. And if you’re nervous, remember that recruiters are just people—they’re there to find talent, not to judge you.

[VonLucia]

I always tell people to arrive early and scope out the layout. The first hour is often the quietest, so you can have longer chats with recruiters before the crowds hit. Bring a padfolio with extra copies of your resume, a list of references, and a pen. One thing I’ve learned is to avoid the “resume dump”—don’t just hand over your resume and walk away. Instead, start with a brief introduction and ask if they have a moment. If they’re busy, offer to come back