A career expert who has advised thousands of individuals on how to stand out to recruiters recommends using this script.

Despite being anxious about their job prospects after college, college seniors are proactively taking steps to ensure their future success.

According to a report from Handshake, the college career resource, 57% of rising seniors are pessimistic about their future job plans, which is an increase from 49% last year, based on responses from 1,925 students from the class of 2025.

Many entry-level roles are experiencing a decline in job creation across the country, which is the top reason for rising seniors' pessimism about the job market.

In the labor market, students are employing various strategies to differentiate themselves from their competitors during their job search.

1. Attend career fairs and networking events (68%)
2. Apply to more jobs (63%)
3. Work part-time senior year (62%)
4. Pursue an internship (61%)

How to stand out at a networking event

Christine Cruzvergara, Handshake's chief education strategy officer, advises going into a career fair or networking event with a solid strategy. Prioritize being focused and researched on your top companies, as everyone in the room will be putting their best foot forward.

Research the top five to 10 employers you're interested in, including their companies, values, and areas of focus, advises Cruzvergara to CNBC Make It.

"To speak knowledgeably about the roles being recruited for, check the company's website or Handshake for the job description. This will help you ask better questions during the interview and stand out from other students."

Don't make this common networking mistake

Cruzvergara, who has been attending career fairs for over a decade, claims that the most frequently asked question by students is a grave error: "What do you do, and what are you recruiting for?"

Introducing yourself, your skills, and your interest in the company or job position leaves a strong first impression with a recruiter, according to Cruzvergara.

Hello, I am [insert your name here]. I am a senior at [X university]. I am highly interested in your role in X, Y, and Z, and I believe my experience can be a valuable asset to that position.

"Suddenly, the recruiter is impressed by the candidate's preparation and connection to the position. This shifts the conversation to a more productive level."

Networking events, panel discussions, and any other career events hosted by your school are valuable opportunities to research and ask more informed questions.

Employers are greatly impacted by candidates who simply show up and ask informed questions, according to Cruzvergara. It's crucial to obtain the recruiter or new contact's information in order to send a follow-up thank you email or LinkedIn message, Cruzvergara advises.

To increase your chances of getting your dream job, enroll in CNBC's online course titled "How to Ace Your Job Interview." This course will teach you what hiring managers truly value, effective body language techniques, how to handle difficult interview questions, and the most appropriate way to discuss compensation.

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