Now that we are a few weeks into semester 1, summer is definitely coming to an end, but the careers fair season is only just starting! The Careers Team and staff from faculties across LJMU have organised a number of fairs and employer events for you to meet organisations from a range of sectors, offering voluntary and paid work experience, placements and graduate schemes. To help you make the most of these events and network effectively with employers, follow our handy tips below:

Preparation is key!

‘Winging it’ is unlikely to impress employers – investing a little time to research organisations in preparation for the fair or networking event will not only make you feel more confident on the day, but will also help to create a good first impression with prospective employers. Find out which organisations will attend the event, and spend some time taking a quick look at their websites and the vacancies they have on offer. It can also be useful to draw up a shortlist of employers you’d like to speak to. Don’t just focus on the big names you have heard of, but give the ones you don’t recognise a chance as well, as they will have lots of interesting opportunities, which you might otherwise miss out on.

On a practical level, check where the fair is held, and if it’s in an unfamiliar location, plan your journey, so you don’t arrive all flustered. Think about what you’re going to wear, and pick something that is both professional and comfortable. Give yourself enough time to speak to all the employers, so arrive early!

Have some questions prepared.

Careers fairs and employer events are a great opportunity to find out more about the organisation and vacancies on offer. Employers usually speak to hundreds of students during an event, and we know from their feedback that the most memorable students were those that asked interesting questions. Rather than asking about stuff you could find out by simply looking at their website, try to be a bit more creative than that.

For example: what do you enjoy most about working for this organisation? What was the most interesting thing you have worked on? Do you have any tips how I can make myself stand out during the application process? What skills are you using the most in your role? What developments in the organisation are you most excited about?

At the fair

First impressions count, so when you approach the employer or stand, be confident and enthusiastic. Don’t just grab any freebies or brochures and run, but introduce yourself, including your name and degree subject. Make a note of the name and job title of the people you speak to at each stand, or ask if they have a business card. It’s great to refer by name to any members of staff you have spoken to at the event in your application. Also write down any application tips and other useful information the staff give you – you’ll speak to so many people that you won’t be able to remember it all afterwards, or you may get mixed up over who told you what.

Good luck and happy networking!