How to Prepare for the Spring Careers Fair: Before, During and After

Posted on: 28 February 2025 in Hints, tips and advice

students walking on campus

Career fairs are a valuable opportunity to meet employers, explore graduate roles, and make connections that could shape your next steps. However, making the most of them requires preparation.
This guide covers everything you need to do before, during, and after the fair, along with key resources to help you leave a lasting impression.

Before the Career Fair: Preparation is Key

Research Employers in Advance

Over 20 employers from a range of industries will be attending, so take some time to prioritise those most relevant to your career interests.

🔍 Find out which employers will be there and plan your approach: Spring Career Fair Employer List

If you're unsure which sector suits you best, our Explore Your Skills Career Guides can help you identify industries that match your skills and aspirations: Identifying and Developing Your Skills & Values

Refine Your Introduction

You may only have a short window of time to make an impression, so prepare a concise introduction covering:

  • Your name, degree, and area of interest
  • What you are looking for (graduate roles, internships, industry insights)
  • Why you are interested in their company

Optimise Your Online Presence

Employers may look you up on LinkedIn after meeting you. Ensure your profile is up to date and reflects your skills and experience.

🔹 LinkedIn Profile Checklist: LinkedIn Profile Checklist
🔹 Building a professional online presence: Building Your Online Profile
🔹 LinkedIn 101: Making an Impact: LinkedIn 101

Dress Appropriately

Business casual is usually the best approach—professional yet comfortable enough to move around the event with confidence.

During the Career Fair: Making a Good Impression

Arrive Early and Have a Plan

Midday and early afternoon tend to be the busiest times. Arriving early gives you more one-on-one time with employers and ensures you make the most of the event.

Ask Thoughtful Questions

Avoid generic questions such as "What does your company do?" Instead, ask questions that demonstrate your interest in the organisation and its opportunities:

  • "What do you look for in a graduate hire?"
  • "What’s the culture like for early-career professionals?"
  • "Can you tell me about a recent project new graduates have worked on?"

📌 For more ideas, see our guide: Questions to Ask Employers

Make Notes and Collect Contact Information

After speaking with an employer, write down key points about your conversation. If they offer an email or LinkedIn contact, connect with them after the event to continue the discussion.

Visit the Career Studio for On-the-Day Support

If you need last-minute advice or a confidence boost, Career Coaches are available during the fair to help with elevator pitches, CV advice, and employer insights.

📌 Find us at the Career Studio

After the Career Fair: Following Up

Send a Follow-Up Message

A short message after the fair helps maintain connections and shows initiative.

Example LinkedIn Connection Message:

"Hi [Name], I enjoyed our conversation at the Liverpool University Spring Careers Fair. It was great to learn more about [Company Name] and your insights into [industry or role]. I’d love to stay connected and follow company updates. Looking forward to keeping in touch."

Example Follow-Up Email:

Subject: Thank You – Liverpool Spring Careers Fair

Dear [Name],

Thank you for taking the time to speak with me at the Liverpool University Spring Careers Fair. I appreciated the opportunity to learn more about [Company Name] and the graduate opportunities available.

I was particularly interested in [mention something specific from your conversation, e.g., a recent project, a key value of the company, or a job opening], and I would love to stay in touch. Please let me know if there are any next steps I should be aware of.

Best regards,
[Your Name]

A brief, well-written message can help maintain connections and potentially lead to future opportunities.

Reflect on Your Experience

After the event, take a few moments to evaluate:

  • Which conversations went well?
  • What could be improved for next time?
  • Which employers or sectors seemed like a strong fit for you?

Continue Your Job Search

The career fair is just one part of your job search. Keep the momentum going by applying for roles, networking, and seeking guidance from the Careers Team.

  • Need help with applications? Book a one-to-one with a Career Coach: Career Support
  • Want to grow your network? Follow Careers & Employability for the latest job openings and career advice:

Sign Up for the Spring Career Fair Today

This is the final careers fair before graduation—an opportunity to connect with employers looking for graduates. Whether you're actively job-hunting, exploring options, or simply making connections, it’s worth attending.

📌 Register now: Spring Career Fair Sign-Up

Final Thoughts

Preparing for a career fair can help you make a strong impression and expand your network. A little planning now could lead to job opportunities, useful contacts, and a clearer sense of your next steps.

The Careers Team is here to support you—before, during, and after the fair.