29
National Graduate Recruitment Exhibition
SHOW GUIDE
6 & 7 February 2009, Manchester Central
(formerly G-Mex), Manchester
hints & tiPs
Opening Times: Friday 11am - 5pm
Research – Top Tip!
Find out what the companies do – if you show you’re taking this
Saturday 11am - 4pm
seriously, they’re far more likely to take you seriously. If you’ve
not done your research before arriving here today, read the
profiles of the recruiters exhibiting now.
PLAn YOUR DAY
First impressions
To get the most out of your visit, it is important that you plan your
Approach the stands as you would do an interview – first
day. Here are some hints and tips for making the most of your time
impressions count! Be professional, intelligent, polite and
at the event, and a list of the type of questions you might like to
interested.
ask recruiters.
Relevance
Think about what you want to get out of your time at the
Questions to ask recruiters
exhibition before you start talking to people. Consult the Index of
Careers offered (see page 46) to find out which companies are
1. What graduate positions do you have available?
relevant to your desired career sector.
W i l l y o u É
2. How many positions are available? Don’t be a sweetie stealer
You’re here to get a job. Wandering around picking up free
3. What degree and class do you require?
sweets, pens and mouse mats without speaking to anyone is
not going to impress…or get you anywhere.
4. What relevant work experience do you require?
D o s o m e t h i n g d i f f e r e n t ?
Be proactive…and keen
5. What would be the starting salary and what would
Don’t just browse, talk to the recruiters! This is your best
it increase to after the first year?
opportunity to get your face in front of your potential employer;
A c c e l e r a t e y o u r c a r e e r ?
6. Do you offer any other benefits?
remember, this will make much more impact than a piece of
paper describing you!
P u t s o m e t h i n g b a c k ?
7. Where are you located?
Ask questions
8. Do you offer a graduate training programme, and if Think of questions you would like to ask before you
I n s p i r e a g e n e r a t i o n ?
so what does it involve? approach the stand. This will ensure you look interested and
knowledgeable and avoid any awkward pauses.
9. What is a typical working day like?
C h a n g e l i v e s ? 10. What support/training will I receive on the job?
Sell yourself…don’t expect to be sold to
Start conversations with expressions such as ‘I’m interested
in…’ or ‘I know about your company, and would like to find out
T a k e a l e a d ?
11. Is there the opportunity to progress and what kind of
more about…’ rather than ‘Who are you and what do you do?’
roles have other graduates moved into?
or ‘What can you offer me?’
12. How do I apply?
W h a t e v e r y o u d o ,
Create the right impression
We hope that you find your visit valuable and wish you every
Try to look relaxed – enthusiasm is often a great cover
T e a c h F i r s t .
for nerves!
success in your future career.
Be the perfect candidate
To register for fast-track entry, helpful hints and Find out what the exhibitors are looking for by asking them
directions, as well as to find out more information
what skills and experience you need. You can then tailor your
about the exhibition, go to
www.gradjobs.co.uk
experiences and responses to what they are looking for.
Make the most of your time
You’ve made the effort to get here, so don’t think ‘How quickly
Supported by:
can I get out of here?’ Take advantage of the free features on
offer, such as the CV Clinic, employer presentations and the
Mock Assessment Centre. Use your time wisely – you never
know, you might just secure that dream job!
w w w . t e a c h Þ