To get the most out of the Fair, you need to be organised and well prepared. Be realistic. No matter how brilliant you are, no-one is going to offer you a job on the spot. Organisations use the Fair to raise their profile and identify suitable candidates for their vacancies. Those that impress may receive invitations to attend follow up recruitment events with individual employers. To make the right impression, you should:
- be clear what type of work you are looking for and why you would be good at it
- use this brochure to find out which employers have relevant vacancies
- research the employers that interest you BEFORE attending the Fair, so you can impress them with your awareness; use your University Careers Service website, employer websites and brochures
- ask questions about information you can’t find on their website
The Fair will be busy so you will only have a short time to make an impact. Asking vague questions or being unclear about your career interests will not entice employers to hire you.
You can take copies of your CV if it is impressive, to give to employers, but be aware that most recruitment is online. So concentrate on impressing exhibitors with your knowledge of their company and your enthusiasm for their opportunities. Show them why they shouldn’t forget you!