Make the Most of the Experience

I know first-hand it can be both exciting and nerve wracking to attend the NRF Foundation Student Program. Whether it’s your first time or you’re returning this year, here are some pieces of advice that helped me make the most of the experience when I attended.

Be on Time

Being on time is always important, but if you want the best seats in the house you need to be there when the doors open. Seating is first come, first served. It’s also important to be there before the program begins to be respectful to both the speaker, and your peers who are there to hear them. Don’t be the person sneaking in after the program begins.

Prepare Questions

Most speakers will leave time at the end of their session to allow students to ask questions. Look at the speaker schedule, posted here, and think of some good questions you’d like to ask if their session permits. Questions can be about their topic, their career, their company, or anything else you may think would be beneficial for yourself and your peers to hear more about. You’ll also want to prepare unique questions for the recruiters at the career fair. Don’t ask general questions that can be found on their website during your first interaction with a recruiter.

Network

The NRF Foundation Student Program brings together students, young professionals, experienced mentors, recruiters, retail leaders, and educators. Take advantage of being in that room to network. Talk to recruiters to stand out, talk to your peers who will grow with you in the industry, talk to the speakers as they are around the lobby. You don’t get many opportunities as great as this one to network.

Dress to Impress

Prepare your business professional outfits for each day of the conference. You never know who you may have the opportunity to meet, and you’ll want to be sure you leave a great first impression. If you look good, you’ll feel good, and you want to feel at your best during networking and the career fair!

Have an Open Mind

Through the Student Program, you are going to learn so much about the retail industry, different companies, new types of jobs, and about yourself. Come in with a curious and open mind so you can really soak in all of the knowledge that you can gain from this weekend. You may discover a new career path, new company, or a new trait about yourself!