Employability Service
Category: Student support services
8 October 2019
Each year employers visit ARU to introduce themselves and their work opportunities - and learn a bit about you. This is your chance to shine.
However, the thought of going into a room full of strangers may make us nervous. If you can remember that these people actually want to meet you, perhaps it will help you relax a little. You can also practice what you want to say in front of family, friends and any of us in The Employability Service.
So once you’ve signed up to attend, here are some ideas on how to get the most from your Careers Fair (or any employer event on campus) and beat those nerves.
Just remember: FAIRS.
Find out who will be there: do some research on the companies and show your knowledge when speaking to them. Don’t worry if you’re not sure of your next steps – the Fair is a chance to build your network and gain confidence in talking to potential employers.
Allocate time to prepare: if you are working on the day of the careers fair, can you change shifts? What time will you have between lectures? If you haven’t updated your CV in a while, visit our Drop-In so that we can look over it with you before the event.
Impress: remember the first time you met someone new… and the impression you got in the first few minutes? It’s exactly the same at a Fair – body language and appearance are just as important as the conversation you have. That first impression is what employers take away with them. Of course, it is also what you will remember about them.
We are often asked what you should wear for the Fair and we suggest something smart-casual. Avoid carrying a drink and using your phone. Your enthusiasm, smile and a good handshake will give a great first impression.
'We love coming to the ARU Fair as students are well prepared and very engaging.'
Register: you can access all our Careers Fairs and other events through the Career Centre. Sign up now!
Seize the opportunity to meet organisations and make contacts. Remember, they have made the trip to campus to talk to you, so they are interested from the start. After the Fair, follow up immediately so that they don’t forget you and you don’t forget them.
We hope you really enjoy taking the time out to do something for your future.
'I always think these events are useful just to get the opportunity to network with people. I have secured all my work experience so far via networking events at uni.'
Find out more about making an impact at Careers Fairs with these useful pointers from TargetJobs and Prospects. For tips on attending Fairs off campus, watch our video.
Disclaimer
The views expressed here are those of the individual and do not necessarily represent the views of Anglia Ruskin University. If you've got any concerns please contact us.