Want to Stand Out at Your Next Charlotte Job Fair? Here’s How.
Charlotte’s job fairs offer a direct path to hiring managers at top companies—if you show up prepared.
Whether it’s a mega career expo in Uptown or a targeted tech job fair in South End, showing up with the right mindset and materials can mean the difference between a missed opportunity and a follow-up interview.
This step-by-step guide will help you get job-fair ready—from your resume to your handshake.
Step 1: Tailor Your Resume for a Job Fair
You only get a few minutes with each recruiter—make your resume do the heavy lifting.
Tips for Charlotte Job Fairs:
- Bring 10–15 clean, printed copies (on white or light resume paper)
- Keep it to one page if possible
- Customize your headline: “Customer Service Professional Seeking Full-Time Role in Charlotte”
- Add quantifiable results (not just duties)
- Highlight your LinkedIn profile or portfolio if relevant
Bonus: Bring a version of your resume saved as a PDF on your phone or USB drive in case digital uploads are needed.
Step 2: Craft a Solid 30-Second Elevator Pitch
You’ll be asked, “So, tell me about yourself.” Here’s how to nail it:
Elevator Pitch Formula:
- Who you are – “Hi, I’m Jasmine, a recent graduate from UNC Charlotte with a degree in marketing.”
- What you’ve done – “I’ve completed two internships focused on social media and content strategy.”
- What you’re looking for – “I’m seeking a full-time role with a Charlotte-area company that values creativity and growth.”
Practice your pitch until it feels natural—not robotic.
Step 3: Dress for the Job You Want
Charlotte job fairs typically recommend business casual—but that doesn’t mean jeans and sneakers.
Dress Guide:
- Men: Collared shirt, slacks or dark jeans, clean shoes
- Women: Blouse or blazer, slacks/skirt, closed-toe shoes
- Keep accessories and perfume/cologne minimal
- Bring a professional bag or folder for your materials
Pro tip: Don’t wear a backpack unless it’s clean, simple, and slim
Step 4: Be Tech-Ready
Many employers use QR codes or digital applications at their booths.
Be sure to:
- Have a charged smartphone
- Download LinkedIn, Indeed, or other career apps ahead of time
- Create a basic QR code for your resume or portfolio (free via Canva or Flowcode)
Know how to scan codes and follow up on links on the spot
Step 5: Follow Up After the Event
Most job seekers skip this—and that’s your chance to stand out.
Send a short thank-you message:
“Hi Ms. Davis, it was great meeting you at the Charlotte Job Fair on June 12. I enjoyed learning more about your open roles at Bank of America. I’d love to stay in touch and follow up on opportunities.”
Connect on LinkedIn or follow up by email within 24–48 hours.
Bonus: Download Our Free Job Fair Checklist
Want a printable prep list you can review the night before?
Download the Charlotte Job Fair Prep Checklist (PDF)
Ready to Put It Into Action?
Check the Charlotte Job Fair Calendar »
View June’s Featured Job Fairs »
Subscribe for local job alerts and career event invites
Internal Links to Add:
- Charlotte Job Fair Calendar
- Charlotte Job Fairs – June 2025
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