Before
Prepare for the Fair – Top Tips What can you do?
Why is it worthwhile?
How do you do it?
Research the employers and develop your commercial awareness’
Lets you focus on relevant organisations to maximise your time on the day Gives you more to talk about to make you memorable (in a good way) Commercial awareness is highly valued by employers so puts you ahead of the competition Useful for interviews and assessment centres First impressions do count and you want to be remembered positively You’ll feel and look more confident
Aim for an overview of the whole business - check the rest of their website. What products does it make? What services does it provide? What is the organisation’s mission statement? How would I sum this up in my own words? What clients and customer does it have? Who are their competitors? What types of roles do they have in the business Search online for recent news about the organisation Use library online resources Dress fairly smartly and aim for neat appearance overall Be conscious of body language. A smile, a firm handshake, eye contact and upright posture help to show you’re serious Try to speak clearly, especially if the Fair is busy and noisy Outline your strengths and skills. You could even prepare an ‘Elevator Pitch’ If you already have a targeted CV, take it along Choose your questions according to who you’re speaking to – it may be an HR representative, a recent graduate or perhaps a line manager What really caught your attention on their website? You can ask for more information about things that interest you How well do you understand the stages in the recruitment process? Are there aspects of the job role you’re unsure about? What skills/qualities have made others successful in the organisation?
Afer
During
Think about how you present yourself
Ask questions
Shows knowledge and interest, which makes a good impression Helps you choose the right role/company Gain information to helps you prepare for applications and interviews effectively
Make some notes
Capture useful information you have gathered Keep track of contacts for your network
Follow up
Shows you’re reliable and committed Increases your active network Can lead to further contacts and opportunities
A few brief notes after each conversation will keep facts, details, hints and tips you’ve collected clear Also note the names of people you’ve spoken to or collect business cards, so you can refer to them later (e.g. in covering letters explaining your motivation or when contacting someone else in the organisation) Do whatever you have promised – make the call or send your CV Why not drop helpful representatives a thank you message? Keep in touch with people who’ve helped, as your career develops