How do you show gratitude and appreciation to your mentors at a job fair?

1 Be prepared

Before you attend a job fair, do some research on the companies, organizations, and speakers that will be there. Identify the ones that are relevant to your field, interests, and goals. Then, reach out to your mentors and ask them for any insights, referrals, or recommendations they might have. This shows them that you value their expertise and experience, and that you are proactive and motivated.

2 Be respectful

At the job fair, be respectful of your mentors' time and attention. Don't monopolize them or interrupt them when they are talking to other people. Instead, wait for an appropriate moment to approach them, introduce yourself, and thank them for their guidance and support. You can also mention something specific that they taught you, helped you with, or inspired you to do. This shows them that you are attentive and appreciative of their contributions.

3 Be curious

One of the best ways to show gratitude and appreciation to your mentors is to ask them questions and learn from them. At the job fair, you can ask them about their current projects, challenges, or goals. You can also ask them for feedback, advice, or suggestions on your own career development. This shows them that you are curious and eager to improve, and that you respect their opinions and perspectives.

4 Be generous

Another way to show gratitude and appreciation to your mentors is to offer them something in return. This doesn't have to be a material gift or a favor, but rather a gesture of kindness, recognition, or support. For example, you can share some relevant information, resources, or contacts that might benefit them. You can also compliment them on their achievements, skills, or qualities. You can also refer them to other people who might need their services, expertise, or mentorship. This shows them that you are generous and thoughtful, and that you care about their success and happiness.

5 Be connected

After the job fair, don't forget to follow up with your mentors and thank them again for their time and assistance. You can send them a personalized email, a handwritten note, or a LinkedIn message. You can also update them on your progress, achievements, or challenges. You can also invite them to stay in touch and keep the conversation going. This shows them that you are connected and committed, and that you value their relationship and friendship.

6 Be yourself

Finally, the most important way to show gratitude and appreciation to your mentors is to be yourself. Don't try to impress them with false or exaggerated claims, or copy their style or behavior. Instead, be honest, humble, and genuine. Show them your personality, passion, and potential. Show them that you are confident, but also open to learning and growing. Show them that you are grateful, but also ambitious and driven. This shows them that you are yourself, and that you are proud of who you are and what you can do.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?