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Tips > Actions to take before, during and after fairs.

This year we are hosting 2 sessions on Preparing for the Fair

Prepare for the Careers Fair

Many students view careers fairs as a chance to collect a couple of leaflets, have a wander around with a group of friends and maybe gather a few freebies along the way! This approach means you MISS OUT on a fantastic opportunity to take some steps towards securing a graduate job, internship or placement. In addition you can pick up some excellent tips on applications and interviews and find out what it’s really like to work for particular organisations from someone who was in the same position as you in recent years. It’s an excellent chance to network and make a good impression.
This session helps you overcome the nerves, develop a game plan and stand out from the crowd – all of which result in you having a positive experience, whereby you leave a lasting (favourable) impression and give your career prospects a head start. Open to students from all years.

Sign up at CEEC4jobs www.jobs.lancs.ac.uk

Before the Fair:

• Find out which organisations will be at the Fair
• Plan ahead: Research the organisations and occupations that interest you. Use the links on the Careers/CEEC web site, or come into Careers and browse through the employer brochures.
• Know what type of work you want to do and why you’ll be good at it. Employers are likely to ask why you are interested in their company and why a certain career interests you. You may only be able to spend a few minutes with the employer so make sure you practice your introductions and answers to likely questions in advance: You only have a short time to make a good impression.
• Get your CV checked in Careers in preparation; most employers in the Great Hall will not require a copy (they usually require you to apply online) but it will help summarise and remind you of the skills you can offer.

On the Day:

Remember - first impressions count. Always be courteous and professional.

• Take something to hold the papers you will collect (briefcase or plastic wallet).
• Resist the temptation to head straight for your favourite employer: Talk to others first to calm your nerves and practice your technique.
• Take advantage of the informal nature of the event. Don't be afraid of approaching organisations you may not have considered before. They may hold the perfect career opportunity for you or know someone who does!
• Don't just try to charm them, use your time with them wisely to pick up handy tips, advice and information that will help you decide a] whether to apply to the company or b] help you through the recruitment and selection process

Following the event:

Make time immediately after the event to take stock of the information you have collected and what you have learnt (don't let your efforts go to waste by posturing and then forgetting what you have found out!)

Make an action plan to determine what you have to do next i.e.

• do you have adequate work experience or do you need more?
• do you need to learn how to fill in an application from (online or paper)?
• will you need to study for an additional qualification?
• do you know the vacancy deadline (always earlier than you think!!)?
• do you need to identify additional opportunity providers / employers?

etc...

Whatever your needs or plans are, don't to forget that the Careers Service is here to help you with all these issues and more! Browse the website to find out how we can help you today.

International students:

Many International Students are unaware of the issues that may face them, either when applying to work in the UK whilst studying or applying for work once they have graduated. In order to make both your time and that of the employers attending the fair more productive it is a good idea to research some of these issues first and find out more about those employers you wish to speak to.

If you are interested in working in the UK during your studies, you will find useful information here: http://www.ukcosa.org.uk/images/workduring.pdf

If you are interested in working in the UK following your studies, you will find useful information here:
http://www.ukcosa.org.uk/images/workafter.pdf

Another useful starting point is the UK Government website: http://www.workingintheuk.gov.uk/

and also this DFES guide: http://www.dfes.gov.uk/international-students/workleaflet.pdf