PREPARE FOR THE FAIR How to make the most of the Scottish Graduate Fair

Scottish Exhibition and Conference Centre, Congress Road, Glasgow Free buses from Strathclyde Students’ Union once an hour –Day 1: 1.30 p.m. – 5.30 p.m. –Day 2: a.m. – 2.30 p.m. Alternatively, take the low level trains from Glasgow Central Station to the Exhibition Centre stop and cross the motorway via the footbridge. WHERE IS THE FAIR?

WHAT HAPPENS AT THE FAIR? UK Careers Fairs are for gathering information and meeting exhibitors. They are not “hiring fairs”. Who will be there? Employers – recruiting for graduate jobs & student internships Education providers of postgraduate courses Professional bodies Relocation Advisory Service – advice on permission to work in UK for international job-seekers Careers advisers Graduate Prospects Voluntary organisations

BEFORE THE FAIR Time management –When to go? – Quieter in the evening and on day 2 –How long to stay? – Allocate at least an hour or more. Plan what you will cover. What do you want to achieve? Background research Plan what you want to say and to ask. Look smart! What about CVs? – Not essential as most exhibitors will ask you to apply on-line.

AT THE FAIR Don’t panic! Observe and think while you queue Employers like people who: - know what they want - ask sensible questions - state what they can offer

QUESTIONS FOR EMPLOYERS Type of work available Location of vacancies Academic requirements - subject + class of degree - UCAS points [ See This does not apply to school education outside UK. What makes a good candidate? Skills + qualities required Selection procedure + closing dates Salaries Training Career prospects Specific issues – e.g. disability, work permits

AFTER THE FAIR Action plan – closing dates? Note names of contacts. What have you learned? –Review your strategy. –Improve your presentation. Go back to the Careers Service. Remember – the Fair is only one means of contacting employers. Take advice on alternative sources of information.

ADVICE FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS The Scottish Government's Relocation Advisory Service (Fresh Talent) will attend the Fair and will be happy to talk to you about your options for staying in Scotland after graduation under the Points Based System for immigration. Contact them before or after the Fair on