Attending a career fair can be a priceless experience for students and job seekers. It releases a world of opportunities, starts new professional relationships, and can be the stepping stone to your dream job. However, the journey doesn’t end when the fair does. The real challenge begins after the event: How do you effectively follow up after a career fair?
The Importance of Following Up
Career fairs introduce you to a myriad of companies, recruiters, and potential career paths. The interactions, however brief, can be the foundation for future professional relationships. But with recruiters meeting countless candidates, how do you ensure you’re memorable? The answer lies in a timely and professional follow-up.
| Strategy | Description | Why It’s Important |
|---|---|---|
| Connect Quickly | Send a follow-up email within 24 hours of the event. | Ensures you’re fresh in the recruiter’s mind. |
| Keep It Simple | Your email should be concise yet impactful. | A short, clear email is more likely to be read. |
| Be Professional | Maintain a professional tone. Address the recruiter formally unless a casual rapport is established. | Reflects your seriousness and professionalism. |
| Use LinkedIn | Connect with recruiters on LinkedIn and send a personalized note. | Enhances your visibility and professional network. |
Connect Quickly
One of the most chosen strategies by job seekers is to connect instantly. It’s recommended to send a follow-up email within 24 hours of the event. This ensures you’re fresh in the recruiter’s mind and shows your keen interest in the opportunity.
Keep It Simple—and Short
Your follow-up email should be concise yet impactful. Recruiters are often swamped with emails, especially after career fairs. A short, clear email is more likely to be read and remembered.
Be Professional
While it’s essential to be genuine in your email, maintaining a professional tone is crucial. Address the recruiter formally, unless you’ve established a more casual rapport. Even if the company has a relaxed culture, err on the side of formality in your initial communications.
Email Template to Put It All into Practice
Here’s a template to guide you in crafting the perfect follow-up email:
Hello [Name of Recruiter],
Thanks again for the opportunity to meet you at the [name/location of career fair] on [date]. I was particularly intrigued by [specific detail about the company or position]. Given my background in [relevant experience or field], I believe I could be a valuable asset to [company name].
I've attached my resume for your reference. I'd love the chance to further discuss how my skills align with the needs of your team.
Thanks again for your time!
Best,
[Your Name]
Using LinkedIn for Follow-Up
LinkedIn is another powerful tool for following up. After the career fair, connect with the recruiters you met. Send a personalized note reminding them of your meeting and expressing your interest in their company. Being active on LinkedIn, such as commenting on company posts or sharing relevant articles, can also keep you on the recruiter’s radar.
In Conclusion
Following up after a career fair is not just about securing a job. It’s about building lasting professional relationships. By connecting quickly, keeping your communication concise, and maintaining professionalism, you increase your chances of leaving a lasting impression. Remember, every email you send is a reflection of your professionalism and eagerness to be a part of the company. Make it count!
