Presentations are great for finding out about opportunities with major graduate recruiters. You can also find out more about their selection criteria. Opportunities may be for graduate jobs or internships for students of earlier years. Increasingly, companies use their internship programmes as a route to their graduate recruitment.
Meeting staff tells you whether you identify with their organisations and values. This can be more important than the salary they offer. They're a chance to find out about things not covered in company literature or websites. Investment of time at this stage can save you wasted time later.
The impressions you gain from attending presentations can help decide whether you want to apply to an organisation. Sign up for employers presentations via our Events Calendar.
What happens at presentations?
Most begin with a brief formal presentation on the organisation and its graduate vacancies. Then, there is an opportunity to ask questions to individuals at the presentation.
Where do presentations take place?
Employer presentations can take place virtually or on campus. On the event description it will be clear whether it is online or in-person.
What should I wear?
Smart casual is fine (both virtually and in person) as you are not going to be interviewed.
Can I just go along to a presentation?
Most employers prefer you to sign up for their presentations. You can do this online via the Events Calendar.
Places may be limited, so don't leave it till the last minute to sign up. If you cannot attend, please delete your online booking. Or contact the Careers Service via yourcareer@strath.ac.uk to cancel your booking as there may be a waiting list.
Please note that some employers organise their own sign-ups for events. If you can’t attend, please let them know.
How can I get the most out of presentations?
Before the presentation:
- start a job search file in which to keep all your information about employer contacts
- find out about an organisation by looking at its website. This will tell you if you really want to attend a presentation
- think about what you want to get out of the event. Prepare a list of questions that you would like to have answered
- double-check the time and venue
At the presentation:
- note the names of speakers and other staff, in case you need to contact them later
- note areas where there will be vacancies, employers' requirements, and selection procedures. Pay attention to closing dates and employers' preferred methods of application
- from informal conversation, begin to form an impression of whether the staff whom you meet are the kind of people whom you would wish to have as colleagues
After the presentation:
- file your notes along with the employer's literature in your job search folder. These will be useful if you decide to apply to the organisation
- follow up any action points, such as contacting other staff you have been referred to. Or speak to a Careers Consultant about any concerns you may have