What to expect at a job fair as a high school student?

I'm planning to attend my first job fair as a high school student. What should I be prepared for? Any tips on how to make the most out of it, like what questions to ask or how to dress?

Going to a job fair is an excellent way to explore career opportunities. As a high school student, it's a chance to see different fields, interact with potential employers, and gather useful market information.

To make the most out of it, here are some things to consider:

1. Professional Dress: Dress professionally as it shows you're serious. Suits, dress shirts or blouses, and formal shoes are a good idea. And remember, it's always better to be overdressed than underdressed.

2. Prepare a Resume: Update your resume to highlight your academic achievements, extracurricular activities, volunteer experiences, or any part-time job experiences you’ve had. Don't forget to bring multiple copies!

3. Research Ahead: Knowing about the companies attending will help you be proactive during interactions. Research their mission, recent news, or job openings. This will prepare you for meaningful conversations with recruiters.

4. Plan Your Approach: With a list of participating companies, prioritize who you want to talk to. Make sure you visit every booth you're interested in, but managing your time wisely can ensure you're not rushing at the end.

5. Prepare an Elevator Pitch: It’s very likely that you will be asked the “tell me about yourself” question. Prepare a 30-second pitch about your interests, skills, and aspirations to impress employers.

6. Questions to Ask: Having questions ready can give you more information about job roles as well as show your interest in the company. Some great questions could be: What kind of entry-level positions exist within your company? What type of training programs do you have for new hires? What qualities are you looking for in your new hires?

7. Collect Business Cards: When you speak to someone at a booth, make it a point to get their business card. This can be valuable for follow-up purposes.

8. Follow Up: Send a personalized thank you email or LinkedIn connection request after meeting the recruiters. It can help you stand out from the crowd.

Remember, the objective is to gain knowledge about career paths available to you, not necessarily to walk away with a job offer. Don't get discouraged if you don't, and use this as a learning experience! Good luck!