Freshers Fair: Tips for Execs Running Stalls
Freshers’ Fair is one of the biggest moments in Welcome Week – not just for freshers, but for societies and sports teams too. It’s your chance to show people what you’re about and give them an easy way to get involved.
Here are a few practical tips if you’re helping on a stall this year:
A friendly “hi” makes a big difference. Remember that lots of freshers feel a bit awkward or nervous, so being open and approachable can make it much easier for them to stop and chat.
Be Approachable
Most people expect to join a group chat or follow your socials, rather than writing down their email. Have a QR code ready that links straight to your chat or Instagram and test it beforehand so it works.
Make Joining Easy
Have a simple way of explaining who you are, what you do, and when you meet. Freshers will talk to loads of groups in one afternoon – if you can sum up your society in a couple of sentences, it’ll stick.
Keep it Clear
If you’ve got taster sessions, a first social, or your first training session planned, have the details visible and easy to share. Freshers are more likely to turn up if they know exactly when and where.
Highlight What’s Next
Bring your group’s energy to the stall – photos, kit, music, or even just how you chat with people. If you’re genuine, it’ll come across.
Use Your Personality
It’s a long afternoon, so swap out who’s on the stall. That way everyone gets a break and makes the day a lot easier. Make sure you bring some snacks with you and drink lots of water!
Sharing
The fair isn’t about signing people up to everything on the spot – it’s about giving them a taste of what you do and making it easy for them to connect with you afterwards. If you keep it friendly, clear, and simple, freshers will want to stick around.
Hope this helps!
This year’s Freshers’ Fair is sponsored by Dominos.
Written by Emily Woods
2025 Activities Officer