Our best tips for how to strike up a conversation at any networking event
Career fairs are a great chance to make a good first impression on potential employers — they’re looking for potential new hires or interns, and you’re looking for companies you want to work for. The But what if you get nervous at a crucial moment and don’t know what to say? We’ve got you covered! Here are some lines you can use at your next career fair or other networking event.
Short & simple convo starters
- It’s classic for a reason: say hello, then share your name and what you’re studying. “Hi there! I’m Aiden, and I’m studying Spanish and Business Administration.”
- Ask about the other person:
- How is your day going today?
- Have you been to one of OSU’s career fairs before?
- Ask about something on the booth or table:
- Do you mind if I grab one of these flyers?
- I love these giveaway items you have!”
- Ask about their organization: “Could you tell me more about (Name of _____)?
Questions about the company
- What kinds of roles are you looking to fill?
- What stands out to you with new hires coming out of college?
- What are some things your team is working on right now?
Questions about the other person
- What do you like about working at ____?
- How did you get started in this industry?
- What advice would you have for someone just starting out in this field?
Exit strategies
When you’re ready to say goodbye and need a graceful way to end the conversation, try these:
- Thanks for taking the time to talk to me! Have a good rest of your day.
- Do you have any business cards I could take with me?
- Thanks for all the info! I hope the rest of the career fair goes well for you.
- (If you brought resumes with you) Do you mind if I drop a resume off with you? I’d love to hear about any openings if they would be a good fit for me.
All about you: The Elevator Pitch
If you have time to practice a bit before a career fair or networking event, spend a little time polishing a short statement that tells people who you are and what you’re looking for. People call this the Elevator Pitch.
The basic formula is: Who you are + what makes you stand out + what you want to achieve.
Your elevator pitch should be no more than 30-60 seconds; something you can easily remember and feel comfortable saying when you are introducing yourself.
- Start with the basics. “Hi, my name is Sam, and I’m studying graphic design.” “I’m Mariana, and working on a degree in computer science.”
- Add a little bit more about yourself and your interests.
- Is there anything you’ve done in college or in work that has stood out for you? “I’m taking a course in branding right now, and I’m finding out that I really love the strategic side of design work.” Or “I have been able to take part in undergraduate research through the URSA program at OSU, and I think I really want to pursue something that lets me do more research.”
- Then add a little more about what you’re interested in: “I’m hoping to find a summer internship,” or “I’m still trying to figure out what I really want to do after college.”
Learn more about elevator pitches and networking strategies.
Find out about Oregon State’s upcoming career fairs.
