Just like a pizza, everything is better when it’s delivered to you.

That’s what an event like the Careers and Employment Week is.

Rather than having to go seek out your potential careers and graduate programs, for one day our Careers Team delivers them straight to you. #convenience

Career Expos are your chance to make a great impression on your future employer. So don’t waste the opportunity.

You don’t have to be in your last year of study to come to a career expo. There are plenty of opportunities on offer such as internships, Work Integrated Learning (WIL) placements, part-time jobs, project specific work as well as graduate positions and graduate development programs.

Follow our advice on how to get the most out of your day.

Dress to impress

Thousands of students visit expos each year, so make sure you stand out.

But remember to be memorable for the RIGHT reasons. Everybody remembers the guy that showed up in the orange neon suit, but do they want him representing their business?

Research the organisations

Employers want to see that you’re actually interested in working for their organisation.

Show them you know your stuff by researching the aims of the business.

Ask questions

Put all that research you did to good use by asking the employers relevant and specific questions.

Don’t just ask about something that could easily be found by a quick google search.

Some example questions are, “what is the work culture like at your business?” or “is there much potential for career progression in a graduate role?”

The Careers Service coordinates a calendar of events each year designed to introduce you directly to employers in your sector, and to help you explore career possibilities.

Network

‘Networking’ often seems like one of those university buzzwords that sounds really complicated and generally unpleasant.

If you’re naturally shy like me, it also seems like an intimidating process. Nothing about ‘schmoozing’ is appealing.

You’re going to have to bite the bullet and start creating those networks though. Around 70% of jobs aren’t advertised, so it seems the saying “it’s who you know, not what you know” rings true to a certain extent.

Career expos are the perfect opportunity to start building your professional network.

And honestly, it’s not as bad as it sounds.

Prepare your own personal pitch. Don’t be afraid of selling yourself. After all, they want to know why they should hire you over the next person.

An expo is a low-pressure environment where you can just chat to employers and highlight your strengths. Show them why you would be a great fit for their business.

Remember to be conscious of body language and make an effort to look engaged. Take notes. And don’t forget to ask for a business card so you can follow up later.

Update your LinkedIn Account

If you don’t already have a LinkedIn account, get on it!

LinkedIn is a great way to cement those professional networks you make at the Expo.

Write down the name of the employers you speak to and add them as connections after the event. This demonstrates you’re serious about wanting to work for this organisation.

The Uni’s Career Expos feature a LinkedIn booth on the day where you can get your headshot taken by a professional, so keep an eye out for them.

Unpack your listed experiences, ‘tease’ out your skills and attributes. This will help you to reflect on your experiences and communicate your employability.

Don’t miss the next Careers and Employment Expo. See you there!