Before you dive into the hustle and bustle of the fair, clarify for yourself:

• Which exhibitors are you most interested in?
• Do you want to find a job, a trainee programme or an internship?
• Do you want to find out about specific sectors, regions or employers?
• What expectations do you have of a company/job, what is important to you and what skills do you have?
• Or are you more interested in networking and inspiration?

The clearer your goal, the better you can conduct your discussions on site – and the greater the chance that you will go home with valuable contacts or concrete prospects.

• Check the list of exhibitors: Who are the companies? What do they offer?
• Create a list of favourites: Which companies do you definitely want to visit – mark them with a heart
• Plan your route: Make a note of when you want to speak to whom. Actively plan 4-5 meetings.
• Find out about exciting presentations and other programme items (see supporting program)

👉 Tip: Use the digital fair guide to make sure you don't miss anything.

• Write down your questions (you will find some inspiration under point 4).

• Update your application documents – print out several copies.
• Organise your business outfit: professional but authentic – the way you feel comfortable.
• Organise your journey: Plan buffer times!

👉 Tip: You can find great tips for your application documents, clothing and much more in our career guide "Career Starter"!

The entry

Exhibitors take part in the fair to get to know students and graduates like you. You can therefore assume that the company representatives are curious about you. If you also show interest in the person and the company, this is one of the most important prerequisites for a pleasant conversation. So approach the company representatives openly, smile in a friendly manner and briefly introduce yourself:

• "Hello, my name is [your name]. I'm studying [name of your specialisation] at [name of your university] and am particularly interested in joining [name of field]".

Hold a conversation

Look at the other person and ask an introductory question to create a pleasant atmosphere. Small-talk topics that relate to the situation are particularly suitable. For example:

• "Have you had many interesting conversations today?"
• "Is this your first time at this fair?"

Once the ice has been broken, you can ask the questions you have written down. Show interest – listen, ask questions, listen again. For example:

• "What makes your industry particularly exciting right now?"
• "What does a typical career path look like at your company?"
• "What makes the company particularly attractive to graduates?"
• "What skills do you particularly value in applicants?"
• "How would you describe the corporate culture?"
• "Am I sufficiently qualified for an entry-level position with my specialisation?"
• "Which skills are particularly important?"
• "Where can I find more information?"

If a company seems interested, ask if you can leave your documents. Have an up-to-date CV with you or a digital business card.

End the conversation

Once all your questions have been answered, ask for a business card/contact details. Thank them and say goodbye.

Then write down a few key points straight away: Who was your contact? What was the conversation about? This way you can get in touch later by email or LinkedIn and be remembered. After the event is before the networking: Write a short message to the people you spoke to. Thank them for the conversation and follow up on it.

Now phase 2 begins – the follow-up.

• Send out applications (ideally 1–2 days after the fair).
• Individual reference to the interview: Show that you listened!
• Maintain contacts: Short email or LinkedIn message - this way you will be remembered.
• Be patient: If there is no reply after 2–3 weeks – ask in a friendly manner.