1. Dress Code: Smart and Professional
First impressions matter, especially when meeting potential employers. Hair styling,clean, facial, body and hand hygiene, pack light.
Here’s how to dress appropriately:
Clothing: Opt for smart casual attire. For boys, this could mean a pair of neat trousers or chinos paired with a button-down shirt or a polo shirt. For girls, a blouse with a skirt or dress pants, or a modest dress works well. Avoid overly casual clothing like jeans, t-shirts, or sneakers.
Footwear: Choose comfortable yet professional shoes. Closed-toe shoes are generally a safe choice.
Accessories: Keep accessories minimal and professional. A simple watch or a small piece of jewelry can add a touch of polish without being distracting.
2. Makeup: Keep It Natural
If you choose to wear makeup, aim for a natural look that enhances your features without being overpowering:
Foundation: Use a light foundation or BB cream to even out your skin tone.
Eyes: A bit of mascara and neutral eyeshadow can help your eyes stand out without being too bold.
Lips: Opt for a neutral or light-colored lip balm or gloss.
Blush: A touch of blush can add a healthy glow to your cheeks.
The goal is to look polished and approachable, so keep it simple and age-appropriate.
3. Preparation: Know Your Goals and Interests
Before attending the expo, take some time to reflect on your interests and goals:
Identify Interests: Think about what subjects or activities you enjoy. Are you interested in art, literature, sports, or technology?
Research Employers: Look up the companies and organisations that will be at the expo. Understand what they do and think about how your interests align with their work.
Prepare Questions: Have a few questions ready to ask employers. This shows your interest and helps you gather valuable information. For example, “What skills are most important for someone starting in this field?” or “Can you tell me more about the career paths in your company?”
4. Engagement: Making a Positive Impression
When engaging with potential employers, confidence and enthusiasm are key:
Introduction: Start with a firm handshake, make eye contact, and introduce yourself with a smile. For example, “Hi, I’m [Your Name]. I’m a high school student interested in [field/industry].”
Conversation: Be prepared to talk about your interests and any relevant experiences, such as school projects or extracurricular activities. Keep the conversation positive and focused on your enthusiasm for learning and growing.
Listening: Show genuine interest in what the employers have to say. Nod, maintain eye contact, and ask follow-up questions.
Closing: Thank the employer for their time and ask for a business card or contact information if you’re interested in following up.
5. Follow-Up: Stay Connected
After the expo, take the time to follow up with the contacts you made:
Email: Send a thank-you email to the employers you spoke with. Mention something specific from your conversation to remind them who you are. For example, “Thank you for taking the time to speak with me about the opportunities in [field/industry]. I enjoyed learning about [specific topic] and am excited about the possibility of pursuing a career in this area.”
Connect on LinkedIn: If you have a LinkedIn profile, consider connecting with the professionals you met. This helps you stay in touch and builds your professional network.
Conclusion
Attending a career expo as a high school student can be a valuable experience that sets the foundation for your future career. By dressing appropriately, keeping your makeup natural, preparing thoughtfully, engaging confidently, and following up professionally, you can make a positive impression on potential employers and gain insights that will help you on your career journey. Remember, the key is to be yourself, show genuine interest, and take advantage of the opportunity to learn and grow. Good luck! Optional: A profile card which has your photo, public information, e.g. website, non-private email address and your speciality could help to engage the conversations or to be referred to the suitable person.