Making the Most of Virtual Recruitment Events

Want to learn about organizations seeking your talent? During the spring term, a number of employers will be hosting recruitment and information sessions on opportunities for graduating students and alumni.

Take advantage of these events to connect with recruiters and hiring managers, learn about their organization, gain insight into what they’re looking for in candidates, and enhance your chances of landing a job!

Here are some tips to make the most of the events and to stand out:

    • Research the organization beforehand to get a sense of their services, impact, and the communities they serve.
    • Be prepared to share a quick introduction about your interests, strengths, and career goals.
    • Present your best self to make a strong first impression by following good video meeting etiquette, which includes keeping an appropriate background and dressing for the workplace (i.e. no pajamas!)
    • Prepare and ask thoughtful questions that demonstrate your knowledge, interest, and curiosity to learn more about their organization, values, and culture. You can also inquire about opportunities for growth, training, and professional development, as well as transferable skills they value, especially if you are a career changer or don’t yet meet certain requirements.
    • Have an updated resume readily available. Some employers ask for resumes before or after the event. Follow the instructions provided by the career office or employer on how and where to submit your resume for consideration.
    • After the event, follow up to personally thank them (BONUS: Reference something you learned from the session to make yourself even more memorable!)

NOTE: Some events may be presentation style, while others, interactive. Be prepared to engage accordingly. We recommend keeping your camera on or at least when asking questions but understand if that may not be feasible for some. Engagement can also include commenting in the chat and unmuting to ask a question when appropriate.

Making the Most of Employer On-Campus Recruitment Events

Want to learn about organizations seeking to hire you for full-time opportunities? We have a number of employers visiting our campus over the next several weeks starting February 11 on Tuesdays from 1:00 to 1:50 PM.

Take advantage of these events to connect with representatives, gain insight into what they’re looking for in candidates, and enhance your chances of landing a job! Below is the schedule for February. Alumni are also welcome.

See a full list of confirmed employers here.

Here are a few ways to make the most of the events and stand out from the crowd:

    • Research the organization beforehand to get a sense of their services, impact, and the communities they serve
    • Prepare an elevator pitch and ensure that you arrive on time to make a good first impression
    • Ask thoughtful questions that demonstrate your knowledge, interest, and curiosity to learn more about their organization, values, and culture
    • Inquire about opportunities for growth, training, and professional development, as well as transferable skills they value, especially if you are a career changer or don’t yet meet certain requirements
    • Collect business cards, so you can follow up to personally thank them (BONUS: Reference something you learned from the session to make yourself even more memorable!)

So You Attended the MSW Job Fair — Now What?

Kudos to those who braved the crowds to meet and connect with employers at last week’s MSW Job Fair! We hope you were able to walk away with valuable information about potential opportunities you could pursue post-graduation. Here are a few follow-up steps to take, now that the fair is over:

  • Get organized. Jot down what you learned about your target organizations, including recruiter contact information (if provided), open opportunities, and sought after skills and attributes not explicitly stated on their websites.
  • Update your marketing material. Incorporate information and feedback you received from the recruiters, and ensure that your resume, cover letter, and LinkedIn profile reflect the qualifications they’re seeking.
  • Follow up. Did the recruiters ask you to send them your resume or submit your application online? Make sure to do so and also send a follow-up email to thank them for their time and to reiterate your interest. You can also try to connect with them on LinkedIn. (NOTE: Not all recruiters accept requests.)
  • Reflect on the experience. Take a moment to assess how you think you managed the experience. Did you feel prepared? What did you do well? What could you have done better? For tips on improving for the future, feel free to schedule an appointment with the Career Services team.
  • Keep the momentum going. Job fairs are a great way to make connections and learn about openings, but your search should not end there. Take advantage of on- and off-campus recruitment events, including the Site Visit to Fresnius Kidney Care on March 29, and networking opportunities, such as the Networking Night at the Columbia Club on April 4, to gain additional leads and insights.