Attending a careers fair is an excellent opportunity to explore various industries, learn about job prospects, and make valuable connections with potential employers. Whether you’re a fresh graduate, a job seeker looking for new opportunities, or a professional reevaluating your future career path, asking the right questions at a careers fair can make all the difference in gaining valuable insights.
BYP Network is therefore excited to be hosting a Careers Fest this September 22, 2023 at the Business Design Centre in London, bringing together over 20 leading corporation and hundreds of guests for panel talks, networking sessions, CV workshops and more!
We’ll also be introducing guests to our new AI-powered career advancement platform, Javelin, which is set to personalise and streamline the way you upskill and look for job opportunities.
To help you make the most of this event, we’ve compiled a list of essential questions to ask when you attend.
1. What Does Your Company Do?
This seemingly basic question is crucial to gain a clear understanding of the company’s mission, values, and the products or services they offer. Knowing about the company’s core business will help you assess whether it aligns with your interests and career goals.
2. What Job Opportunities Are Available?
Inquire about current job openings or potential vacancies within the company. Some organisations may not actively advertise all their job positions, and networking at the event could give you a competitive edge.
3. What Skills and Qualities Do You Look for in Candidates?
Understanding the key attributes and skills that employers seek will enable you to tailor your CV and interview preparation accordingly. It also helps you gauge whether your qualifications and experiences match their requirements.
4. Can You Describe the Company Culture?
Company culture plays a significant role in job satisfaction and overall work experience. Ask about the work environment, team dynamics, and the company’s approach to employee well-being and professional growth.
5. Are There Opportunities for Advancement and Professional Development?
Knowing whether the company values career progression and invests in employees’ growth can help you evaluate long-term prospects within the organisation.
6. What Does a Typical Career Path Look Like Within the Company?
Understanding the potential career trajectory within the company can provide valuable insights into future growth opportunities and whether the organisation aligns with your long-term aspirations. Not all career paths are linear, and so this question can also help you assess whether a role can be used as a stepping stone into another field.
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7. How Do You Support Diversity and Inclusion?
Inquiring about a company’s commitment to diversity and inclusion can give you an idea of their values and whether they foster an inclusive and equitable work environment. You can assess whether they have role models that you can look to for support or ERGs that can provide a safe space for you to discuss your experiences.
8. What Projects Are You Currently Working On?
Demonstrating an interest in the company’s ongoing projects or initiatives can showcase your enthusiasm and proactive approach to potential employers.
9. How Do You Handle Work-Life Balance?
Striking a balance between work and personal life is essential for overall well-being. Ask about the company’s policies and practices concerning work-life balance. It’s important to put yourself first and avoid workplaces that may trigger burnout.
10. Can You Provide Contact Information for Further Follow-Up?
Don’t hesitate to ask for contact details of the recruiters or professionals you speak with. Sending a follow-up email after the careers fair reinforces your interest and leaves a positive impression.
11. Are There Internship or Graduate Programmes Available?
If you’re a student or recent graduate, find out about internship opportunities or graduate programmes that the company offers. These programmes can be an excellent entry point into your desired industry.
12. What Advice Would You Give Someone Pursuing a Career in [Industry/Role]?
This open-ended question can lead to valuable insights and advice from experienced professionals, helping you gain perspective on potential challenges and opportunities.
Take a look below to check out which industries and companies will be represented at BYP’s Careers Fest.
Remember, a careers event is not just about employers evaluating you; it’s also an opportunity for you to evaluate them. Be prepared, be enthusiastic, and make a lasting impression by asking thoughtful questions and showcasing your genuine interest in building a successful career. Happy networking!
Join hundreds of guests at BYP’s Careers Fest
Places are FREE but are on a first come, first served basis. Don’t miss out – bring your friends and enjoy a day of networking, insights and motivation to bring out your true potential.
Perfect your CV ahead of the event
Download BYP’s free CV toolkit with exclusive tips and insight on how to make your CV shine to potential employers.
