Tips And Tricks

Making the most of Careers Exhibitions

Going to a Careers Exhibition is a proactive way of finding out the latest information ranging from advanced study & training opportunities to job opportunities to starting your own business.

Exhibitors - including employers, universities, colleges and other agencies will give you all the information you require including, answering your questions and truthfully telling you what it’s really like out there in today’s job market.

There will also be a program of seminars & forums talking about specific topics such as:

• Employment prospects
• Related industry opportunities
• And job search skills

Why go?

• To get the chance to have YOUR questions answered directly- by the experts
• To get all the information in one place at one time
• To get the chance to compare what's on offer
• Learn how to plan for your future
• Explore the training & further study opportunities
• Get to know the latest employment trends and what the country needs in the next decade

Who visits?

• Careers exhibitions are usually for everyone - pupils, students, fresh grads, adults looking for a new career path or further studies & training opportunities, parents seeking information for their children’s education needs, and employees looking for better opportunities
• The main thing is to come and take an active interest in your future plans

What to do before you go:

• Find out the basics - the dates, times and location
• find out who will be there - a list of exhibitors will be available closer to the dates
• Think about what you want out of the exhibition - information, advice, and ideas
• Decide who you want to speak to and find out where their stand is
• Make a list of questions you want to ask
• Prepare and update your CV
• Make a list of the forums of your interest to visit them

At the exhibition:

• Have a look on the floor plan of the exhibition
• Mark on it the stands you want to visit
• Go through your questions and ask for information/advice
• Consult your list - take the time to find out everything you need to know
• Take notes of anything important and copies of any RELEVANT information
• Look around - maybe there are other opportunities you’ve not yet considered
• Take paper and a pen to note down information or contacts
• Remember that the exhibition is not only a place to submit CV’s or find a job immediately but also an opportunity to educate yourself
• Ask for summer job opportunities or work placements/internships
• Remember: Maybe you will need more than one visit to get all your questions answered.

After the exhibition:

• Follow up on any contacts or organisations you need to get in touch with for more information or to send your application to
• Use what you’ve learnt to make decisions and plan ahead
• Visit your university’s career center for advice on the next steps

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