Five ways to stand out at a careers fair

Before the fair, make sure you find out which organisations are attending. Find out what roles they’re recruiting for, how their training programme works and then decide whether you’re interested in connecting with them on the day. 

Use the employer’s website or LinkedIn to do this. LinkedIn can help you to find out what they company has been working on recently and give you an insight about what it’s like to work there. 

Make a plan for the day and make sure you’ve thoroughly researched each of the employers you plan to speak to. 

Make sure your CV is up to date and your pitch is polished. 

If you’re attending a virtual careers fair, make sure you upload your CV and any other information for employers to review on the day. For in person fairs, bring some printed copies along. 

Prepare a short introduction about who you are, what you’re studying, when you’re graduating and when you’re hoping to start an accountancy training programme. It’ll help you to start conversations with your chosen employers and leave a lasting impression. 

Don’t forget to have some employer-specific and general questions that you can ask employers when you meet them.  

Remember careers fairs are as much about discovering employers as they are about employers discovering you. Ask questions and explore your options before narrowing your choices. 

Whether you’re at a virtual fair or an in-person fair, you’ve got one chance to make a positive first impression.  

So, as well as having your pitch polished, it’s important that you dress appropriately and if you’re attending online, make sure your background is tidy. 

And finally, make sure you speak to employers. 

When you do, take the time to connect, ask questions about their CA training programme and about the support they offer. 

Make any important notes before you move on from one employer to the next.