Open to all current undergraduate and graduate students, as well as recent graduates (2021-2024) from all faculties.
Student ID is required for entry.
Doors close at 3 p.m. Come early to avoid line ups.
Maximize your experience
Know the companies: Before the fair, research the companies that will be attending. Visit their websites and social media pages to learn about their mission, vision, values, products, services and clients. The more you know, the easier it will be to make a memorable connection with company representatives.
Prepare questions: Develop thoughtful questions to ask employer representatives based on your research. This will help you stand out and show genuine interest. Learn how to prepare questions for the fair.
Plan your day: Identify and prioritize the companies you’re most interested in. Create a top 10 list to make sure you talk to those that align most with your goals.
Prepare your application materials: Have copies of your up-to-date resume ready to share with employers. Carry your materials in a portfolio rather than a backpack, and ensure your LinkedIn profile is updated for easy post-fair connections.
Present professionally: Dress in clean, neat, professional attire—avoid casual clothing like jeans, t-shirts, or sneakers. Make sure your overall look reflects your readiness for the workplace. Good hygiene is important, but avoid heavy perfumes or colognes.
Engage actively: Be friendly, smile, make eye contact, and project your voice to be heard in the busy environment. Prepare your elevator pitch, and share how your skills align with the needs of employers. Take notes during your conversations and ask for business cards or the names of representatives.
Go with an open mind: Don’t overlook companies just because they don’t seem related to your field. Many organizations hire for a variety of roles and disciplines. Networking broadly might unlock hidden opportunities you hadn’t considered.
Use your time wisely: Arrive early if you can. Prioritize your top companies, but keep an open mind about others. Be considerate of others waiting to speak, and make your conversations brief but meaningful.
Network while you wait: Chat with fellow attendees to exchange information and insights about employers. Listen in on other conversations to avoid repeating the same questions, and use your waiting time to review booth materials or jot down notes.
Follow up: After the fair, send personalized follow-up messages via email or LinkedIn to reinforce your interest with employers. Thank them for their time, mention specifics from your conversation, and express enthusiasm about how you can contribute to their team.
Want more help to succeed at the career fair? Visit the career planning website for resources, workshops, and appointments and drop-ins with our career advisors.
Questions to ask at the fair
Meeting people who work in the industry you want to pursue a career in is an incredible learning opportunity. Asking questions can help you identify the steps needed to achieve your goals.
Good questins can help you:
Better understand the companies’ needs and challenge areas
Find out what to focus on in your resume and how to get an interview
Get tips to excel in the interview process
Keep these tips in mind:
Ask open-ended questions instead of those that lead to simple yes or no answers.
Tailor your questions based on who you're speaking to.
Prioritize the questions that matter most to you; you’ll likely only have time to ask a few.
Pay attention to what others are asking to avoid repeating the same questions.
Can you tell me about a typical day?
Can you tell me more about the projects you are working on and what you find most challenging/rewarding?
What skills and characteristics would the ideal candidate need to obtain a position?
How well did university prepare you for the job? Are there courses or projects you recommend?
What makes you stand out from your competitors?
Can you recommend any professional associations/groups (including on-line forums)?
What advice do you have for new graduates who want to work for your company?
What are you looking for in a resumé?
What additional training, skills or certifications do you recommend?
How do you evaluate overseas experience?
What top skills do new grads/interns have that make them successful in your company?
When is your peak hiring time?
What types of positions do you have trouble filling? Why?
What kinds of projects/challenges are interns given in your company?
What does your hiring process consist of?
Are you hiring for positions in other Canadian or international offices?
What are typical entry-level positions in this field?
What is a typical career path in your company?
What is the salary range for an entry-level position?
Do you have any suggestions about how to prepare for your recruitment process?
What is the best way to follow up on my application?