With the Career Readiness Fair: “So You Want a Career in Sports” just days away, Zach Howman wants students to treat the event as more than a job fair--he sees it as a low-stakes way to practice networking and make real connections in the sports industry.

The event will take place Feb. 6 from 1-4 p.m. at the Huntington Club of Ohio Stadium.

Howman, a senior career advisor for Buckeye Careers who helped organize the fair, said the goal is to create a conversational environment where students can learn about the industry while gaining experience speaking with professionals.

“We want to make it a really conversational event with the focus to help students learn about the industry, get ready for events like this and also get practice networking,” Howman said. “Great connections and a network will be built from this event, but we want to focus on readiness as well.”

Howman emphasized the importance of preparing before the fair with online networking profiles, including LinkedIn and TeamWork Online.

“TeamWork Online is going to be at the event too, which is super exciting,” Howman said. “They’re going to be looking over résumés and giving tips on talking to employers, so I’d definitely have a TeamWork Online profile built as well.”

Howman encouraged students to bring printed résumés and dress in business professional attire.

The event will include opening remarks and a student panel, followed by networking sessions with professionals that feature mock interviews and résumé reviews.

Organizations participating in the fair include 97.1 The Fan, the Cleveland Guardians, Columbus Crew, Experience Columbus, Haslam Sports Group, Indianapolis Motor Speedway, NetJets, the Ohio High School Athletic Association and Ohio State Athletics, among others.

Howman recommended that students research employers in advance to feel more prepared.

“Just having an idea of who might be there and doing some research on LinkedIn beforehand is always a good place to start,” Howman said. “You might even find a connection to that organization.”

For students who feel nervous about speaking with employers, Howman advised approaching conversations with an open mindset.

“Treat them like another person you want to have a conversation with,” Howman said. “This is just a time for you to talk with someone who is probably going to be really nice and willing to help.”

Whether students are freshmen attending their first career fair, seniors searching for jobs or those simply exploring the sports industry, Howman said he hopes the event builds confidence and excitement.

“I hope this gives students confidence and a sense of excitement about what’s possible in this industry,” Howman said. “It’s a really good first step.”