Career Centre

Career Fair - Frequently Asked Questions

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What is a Career Fair?

A Career Fair is typically an opportunity where students can meet employers, learn about employment and career opportunities.

NorQuest's Career Fair provides several opportunities for students, including:

• Connection with employers via virtual booths 

• Attend panels, workshops, and info sessions to learn more about careers and ways to build your skills 

• Get resume advice from professionals 

• Practice your interview skills 

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Do I need to be graduating in order to attend the Career Fair?

No, any NorQuest student can and should attend! This event is designed for all NorQuesters, at any stage of your career journey.

Even if you're not graduating for another year or two, this event is a chance for you to connect with professionals, practice your networking skills, and find out about opportunities to get involved in the workforce or your community. It's also a opportunity for you to practice attending an event online and learn about resumes and interviews. 

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How do I get ready for the Career Fair?

We have a few tips and tricks to consider to prepare for the exciting event: 

1. Plan: The Career Fair is hosting a series of engaging events, workshops, sessions and employer booths. Review the schedule for the day and plan out which opportunity you would like to participate in. 
2. Prepare: Once you choose your sessions, start thinking about ways to prepare for the event. You can meet one-on-one with a Career Coach to get tips and resume support. You can also explore the resources on this page. 
3. Participate: Come prepared to talk to employers and professionals. Have a notepad and pen available to take any important notes during the day (such as an employer's contact information or a company website).
4. Reflect: After the Career Fair, reflect on your experience and if there are any next steps you need to take. Send a follow-up email or apply for a job.

 

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What should I wear? 

As you prepare for the Career Fair, it is important to consider and plan what you want to wear for the day of the event. Your clothing can help create a positive and professional first impression.

Below are some general tips and guidelines to dressing professionally at the Career Fair:

• Dress appropriately for the event: employers may be looking to hire NorQuest students, and dressing professionally can help you stand out from other candidates. (See the list below of how you can style your outfit for the Career Fair)
• Even if you are attending the Career Fair online, dressing professionally can help you feel confident and prepared to network, learn, and participate!
• Professional clothing can include:
  • Pants and skirts: neutral colored chinos, slacks, and mid-length skirts
  • Tops: this can include, but not limited to: blouse, polos, knit sweaters, button down shirts, neutral colored t-shirts. Make sure that your top does not include large logos or graphics.
• Get your outfit ready a day or two before the Career Fair.
• Check out the 'Dress for Success - Clothing Supports' page to learn about organizations in Edmonton that provide opportunities to develop your professional wardrobe. 

What is important is to dress in an outfit you feel comfortable in, and one that represents your professional self. You can bring your personality into your professional wardrobe.

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How do I introduce myself? 

Many people feel nervous or anxious about speaking in a professional setting. Practice will make you feel confident and ready for any meeting
and conversation at the Career Fair. If you're attending online, remember to mute your microphone when you are not talking. You also want to minimize background noise, go to a quiet place when talking to an employer.

When introducing yourself to an employer, another student, a NorQuest staff member, considering mentioning the following:

• Who you are (your name)

• What program you're in at NorQuest College

• What you'd like to accomplish at the Career Fair

For example, your introduction could sound like this:

"Hello, my name is Alex and I am in my second year of the Business Administration program, and will be graduating in April 2025. At the Career Fair, I would like to meet employers and learn about career opportunities."

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Researching employer organizations

If you are planning on attending Employer expo booths, it is important to plan and research ahead of time:

• Click here to see a list of employer organizations attending the event
• Explore the company/organization's website and familiarize yourself with their career opportunities and how to apply
• If there is information that you cannot find online, write down your questions to ask when you meet with them at the Career Fair

 

How do I talk with employers? 

When you meet with an employer, you should expand upon your introduction to include your work experience, WIL experience (this includes co-op, practicum, field experiences, etc.) and volunteer experience, to highlight the wonderful knowledge and experience you possess.

For example, your introduction can now sound like this:

"Hello, my name is Alex and I am in my second year of the Business Administration program, and will be graduating in April 2025. At the Career Fair, I would like to meet employers and learn about career opportunities. I have completed a co-op experience last summer with XYZ Company, and have worked at 123 Organization as a Administrative Assistant until 2024. I am excited to connect with you about business and administrative opportunities with your company."

Ask thoughtful and relevant questions to employers so you can learn about their organization:

• What kind of employee are you looking to hire?

• How can I contact you in the future?

• Where can I find more information about your organization?

• What does your company value?

 

 

 

 

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Meet the Career Centre Book a free, one-on-one meeting with a Career Coach to prepare for the Career Fair.   Click on this link to book with us!   Questions? Connect with us: careerfair@norquest.ca