Just showing up at a job fair doesn't cut it these days. Candidates need to dress to impress, have their resumes in hand and, most important, have something meaningful to say.

"It's all the preparation that helps them stand out from the crowd and makes a job fair a success," said Lynne Sarikas, director of the MBA Career Center at Northeastern University's College of Business Administration in Boston. Here are Sarikas' recommendations to ensure a productive job fair:

1. Perfect your pitch: Have a quick pitch ready so you can introduce yourself positively to employers. Give them the headlines of who you are, what you are looking for and what makes you unique.

2. Dress up: Wear your best business attire. A professional, conservative suit is appropriate; flashy accessories are not. Use good personal hygiene. Don't wear heavy fragrances.

3. Know the companies: Review the list of participating companies and research them. Know what they do, which customers they have and what types of positions they are hiring for. Also, pay attention to any news a company might make.

4. Prioritize: Don't start at the first table by the door and work your way around the room. You may spend too much time waiting in line and miss the companies you most need to see. Focus on meeting with those at the top of your list, and be willing to wait for them.

5. Bring plenty of copies of your resume. Make sure your resume is perfect. Hand out your business card as well.