Attending the Illinois Tech career fair is an excellent way to connect with potential employers and learn about exciting job and internship opportunities. However, your work isn’t done once you leave the career fair venue. Following up effectively after the event is crucial to keeping your conversations going and potentially landing interviews.

Here are some key steps to take after a productive career fair:

1. Organize your notes and materials
   Go through any pamphlets, business cards, or notes you collected and organize them by company and role. Prioritize the opportunities that interest you most so you can focus your follow-up efforts.
   
2. Connect on LinkedIn
   For any recruiters or employees you spoke with, connect with them on LinkedIn within 24-48 hours while your conversation is still fresh in their minds. Customize your connection request to remind them how you met and express your enthusiasm for their company.
   
3. Send tailored follow-up emails
   Draft personalized follow-up emails reiterating your qualifications and fit for specific roles you discussed. Attach your updated resume and ask about the next steps in the hiring process. Aim to send these within 2-3 days of the fair.
   
4. Apply for open roles
   Review the company websites and apply for any currently open positions that fit your background and interests. Mention conversations you had at the career fair in your application materials.

The career fair provides an invaluable opportunity to market yourself directly to employers. But sealing the deal requires strategic, timely follow-up in the days and weeks after. Stay organized, persistent, and professional for the best chances at advancing to interviews.

I wish you all the best for your future endeavors, stay positive! Best Luck!