Make the most of recruitment fairs
There will be lots of careers and recruitment fairs on campus, and they are a great place to hunt for jobs. But if you just show up on the day, you may be overwhelmed by the sheer number of possible employers and miss the stand that's vital for your future career. Follow this step-by-step guide to help you make the most of the opportunity.
Step 1: have a plan
Do you want to collect information to help you decide on a specific industry or do you want to learn more about certain organisations by talking to some graduate employees? Do you need help with your applications or do you want to network and gain contacts? Are you looking for vacation work opportunities or are you there to secure an interview for a graduate scheme? Ask yourself these questions to help you focus and get the most out of the fair.
Step 2: think tactically
Get hold of a list of all the exhibitors and decide who you want to see. You may be able to obtain a floor plan so you can plot your route (though once you arrive this floor plan will bear little resemblance to the higgledy-piggledy mess in front of you). Employers will be swamped by students throughout the day, so get there early and approach employers before they lose the will to live.
Step 3: prepare
Research the employers you're interested in so you sound informed when you talk to them. There are often talks by expert speakers, which may answer some of your questions. Consider talking to careers advisers for help with your CV or interview technique. Try to get a good night's sleep and have a good breakfast so that you appear fresh and energised, like the Ready Brek kid of graduate recruitment.
Step 4: look the part
First appearances count, so try to look professional. Careers fairs may be quite casual but you should still dress smartly and remember to wear comfortable shoes. Most importantly, smile and look like you're enjoying yourself, however hard this might be. Give off an air of enthusiasm and self-motivation: employers love that.
Step 5: stand out
Know what you have to offer - your skills, qualities and experience - so you can sell yourself to prospective employers. Be assertive, articulate and succinct, as weary employers won't appreciate you rambling on. Take some copies of your CV to use as a point of reference to market yourself. You could even tailor your CV to your chosen employers. If you're interested in a creative sector, you could bring a portfolio of your work. Have specific questions ready, possibly about graduate recruitment schemes, company culture or work/life balance issues.
Step 6: obtain inside information
Make sure you get contact details so you can follow up any leads - take the name of the person you spoke to or ask for their business card. Some employers might contact you to invite you for an interview - if you don't hear from them, follow up with a phone call. Take some paper and pens so you can make notes. What makes this organisation different? Would you be happy working with these people? Above all, use the fair to network and practise your interview technique. Many fairs offer instant interview facilities so be prepared to be put on the spot.
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