Your guide to industry events
Learn how to make an impact at industry events, connect with employers, and stand out as you take the next step in your career.
Each year, the Careers Service hosts expos and industry events designed to help you build professional connections and explore career opportunities. These events are a chance to speak directly with employers, learn about your industry, and discover pathways to placements and graduate roles.
Preparation is key to making the most of industry events. Use this guide to learn how to research, showcase your strengths, and network effectively to stand out to employers.
Prepare and research
Researching organisations before an industry event helps you feel confident, ask informed questions, and make valuable connections. Follow these steps to prepare.
- Identify organisations: Review the list of stallholders or panel members attending and focus on those aligned with your field of study, interests, and career goals.
- Research their work: Explore current projects, company values, and upcoming opportunities. This knowledge will help you ask insightful questions at the event and network effectively.
- Explore opportunities: Look for roles with the organisations you’ve researched, such as graduate programs, placements, or job openings that match your interests
- Clarify your goals: Decide what you want to achieve at the event, whether it’s learning more about your industry, exploring career pathways, or building new professional connections.
- Plan questions: Prepare questions that show your research and curiosity, such as upcoming roles, key skills employers value, or trends shaping the industry.
Need help planning your career?
If you’re unsure about your next move, our Careers Service can guide you through your options and help you plan for the future. Book an appointment today.
Showcase your personal brand
A strong personal brand helps you stand out to employers and build meaningful connections in your chosen industry. Here’s how you can best showcase your skills and experiences before the event:
- Create a short personal pitch: Highlight your skills, interests, and enthusiasm for your industry.
- Update your LinkedIn profile: Ensure your profile reflects your skills, experience, and career goals.
- Review your resume or portfolio: Tailor your resume or portfolio to the roles and opportunities you’re targeting at the event.
Helpful resources:
- Building Your Personal Brand (Video, 3min 6 secs)
- Social Media & Job Search Tipsheet (PDF, 269KB)
- Taking a Skills Audit (Video, 2min 26secs)
- Resumes Tipsheet (PDF, 266KB)
- Resume Checklist (PDF, 328KB)
- Using LinkedIn to Network (Video, 4mins 48secs)
- LinkedIn Uses Tipsheet (PDF, 258KB)
Get feedback on applications and LinkedIn
The Careers Service is available to help you polish your documents and make your LinkedIn profile shine. Drop in on campus or connect with us online.
Tips for event day
Expos and industry events are a great chance to explore opportunities, learn about your chosen field, and meet professionals and potential employers.
- Introduce yourself confidently: Prepare a brief introduction for when you approach employers. Share your name and degree, and mention your key skills, interests, and aspirations. If you discovered in your research any roles or programs they offer, express your interest.
- Listen and ask questions: Networking is about building genuine relationships, and the best way to do that is by actively listening and asking thoughtful questions. Show interest by asking industry representatives about their work, organisation, and the wider industry. Engage with their answers and follow up with related questions. Check out our Networking Tipsheet (PDF, 279KB) for more advice.
- Take quick notes: While the conversation is still fresh, jot down who you spoke with, what you learned, and who you’d like to follow up with. A simple note on your phone can make this easy.
- Dress the part: Dress professionally to create a positive impression and shows employers you value the opportunity.
We’re here to help on the day
Events can be busy and overwhelming - if you need support, talk to a Careers Service staff member on the day for friendly advice and assistance. If you need accessibility support, contact the Careers Service before the event.
Follow up and stay connected
Following up after an event helps you build lasting connections and stay informed about future opportunities. Here’s how to keep the momentum going:
- Send a thank-you email: Reach out to any key connections you made on the day to thank them for their time and include any follow-up questions about opportunities you discussed. See our email introduction guide (PDF, 209KB) for tips.
- Make a quick call: If appropriate, call to learn more about their organisation and how you might fit. Prepare talking points in advance.
- Connect on LinkedIn: Send a personalised message when adding new connections. LinkedIn is a great way to keep the conversation going and learn about their organisation.
- Apply for opportunities: Submit tailored applications for roles you’re interested in. For feedback, reach out to the Careers Service.
Expos and Industry Events
Attending Expos 3min 29 secs
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