Graduate fair fun
Yesterday we had a good time at the Newcastle IT Recruitment Fair, held at Newcastle University. I always really enjoy the chance to go to one of the fairs. It's a fantastic opportunity to meet students and other people looking for work in the IT sector. There's always fantastic turnout at these events, more so now than ever, and obviously it's a great chance for us to sell ourselves to the next great wave of students coming into the workplace.
The fair yesterday was no exception to this, and the turnout couldn't have been better. My thanks to Newcastle University and the School of Computing Science for organising and hosting the event. We met some fantastic people, with a real spread of skills and interests across the spectrum. Some people never fail to impress, clearly being well prepared and with lots of questions to ask. But there are also a large number of people who haven't managed to prepare quite as well.
While a graduate fair is by no means an interview, it's always useful to do some research upfront when coming to these events. Especially events such as the IT Recruitment Fair, where there is only a small number of companies exhibiting relative to the larger, summer events. First impressions are always important. We work hard to try and make a good impression. We want to attract the best and brightest people to come and work for us. That effort isn't always shown by some people attending these fairs.
We want to make sure as many people as possible stand the best possible chance of succeeding in this industry, especially within the North East. So, for those attending any graduate/job fairs over the next few months, try and remember a few simple tricks.
Do your research
Companies like to see people having made a little effort to know who it is they're engaging with. It only takes a few minutes to check out a companies website or online profile. It'll always make a better impression if you already know something about the company, and have some questions ready to ask about what they do, or the benefits available to employees.
Don't be afraid to talk to us
We're happy to hand out material and information about our company. But talk to us. We won't bite, honest! We love talking to you about our company, and finding out about you. Sometimes it's scary, I know some of our developers who come to these things don't get out much, but even they go all out and get in there, talking to anyone and everyone. You should too! You'll always find out more about a company, and what they are like by talking to a someone.
Come with a CV
If you're in the market for a job, now or in the future, come prepared with a CV. And, as you would if applying for a job normally, make sure the CV is well written and presented. Again, it's not an interview, but if we make a good impression on you, and vice versa, then the chances are we'll get in touch when you're ready, and we can talk some more. Having a CV to hand, even if you're not looking for a job right now, can never hurt!
It's not all about the freebies
On a lighter note, just remember, it's not always about who has the best freebies to hand out! We normally only have brochures, and our team to talk to. But every member of our team is fantastic to chat to, great fun, and much better than a cheap free pen!
I hope some of this helps, and maybe we'll see you soon!
Sarah
