This term we’ve got a number of careers fairs offering you insight into a range of sectors. Fairs are a great opportunity to meet employers, network and find out about the opportunities available to you as an LSE student.

With fair bookings opening soon (Banking and Financial Services bookings open today!) you might be wondering what the key need-to-knows are before you attend a fair? Here are our top 5 tips plus a video to get you #LSECareersFair ready!

1. Dress to impress

One of the most important things to consider before meeting employers is what to wear. Your outfit and personal presentation will be the first thing a potential employer sees, be sure to make a lasting first impression.

Unless otherwise stated in the event description, we recommend smart casual for all of our events. This means that you should look smart, but you don’t need to wear a suit. Linen trousers or chinos with a shirt or a smart dress should be fine. The main rule is that you shouldn’t be wearing jeans or trainers, and the most important thing is that you look neat and well-presented.

2. Be selective of who you talk to

You’re not going to have time to talk to everyone, so you’re going to want to make the most of your allocated slot. Our fairs are big, and there will be a huge number of both employers and students trying to talk to the employers, so make sure that you organise your priorities beforehand.You can see what employers are going to be in attendance from the event page on CareerHub.

3. Research the companies thoroughly

Once you know who you want to talk to, start learning about them so that you can have an informed conversation with the representative on the day.

Researching the company shows them that you’re actually interested, rather than turning up to the fair and testing the waters. This makes it more likely for the representatives to take an interest in you back and could lead to more connections later down the line.

4. Prepare questions

Along with your research, you should also plan some questions that you can ask the company representative once you meet them. You don’t want to waste your time asking questions that are answered on their website, and you should try and stand out by asking things that are different from the same boring queries they always get.

Remember, though, that this fair is also about your own interests. If there is anything that you want to know about a company that isn’t immediately obvious then don’t hesitate to ask it, as this is your best opportunity to find out what a job in their company can do for you.

5. Take a couple of CVs

Don’t get overexcited: the fairs are not an opportunity to give everyone you see a speculative CV. In fact, some employers may find it rude if you immediately try to sell yourself to them.

That being said, you shouldn’t be unprepared. If you have a good conversation with a representative then they may ask you for your CV, or be receptive if you mention that you have one with you. This is no guarantee of employment, but it’s definitely a good first step in getting noticed by an organisation.

Hear from Careers Consultant, Shaun Harris on how you can get the most out of an LSE Careers fair.

Book your place for one of our fairs on CareerHub!

Bookings are now open for:

• Banking and Financial Services Fair, 2 (Night one) and 4 (Night two) October.