What events are proving to be most valuable for students and how can employers build a solution that works? ISE members got together to discuss how to do this effectively.
As we navigate the ever-evolving landscape of university career services, one thing is clear: students are still very keen on career fairs.
These events offer a low-pressure environment for students to explore potential employers, making them a popular choice among attendees. Universities have recently reported a significant rise in student participation, highlighting the importance of these fairs as a vital resource for career exploration.
ISE facilitated a recent discussion among employer, university, and supplier members, revealing the career events that work well and the best approach.
The appeal of career events
Career fairs are a fantastic opportunity for students to interact with employers in a non-threatening setting.
Many students appreciate the chance to browse various organisations and gather information without the commitment of formal interviews. The trend shows a steady growth in attendance year-on-year, indicating that students are keen to engage with potential employers and learn about different career paths.
In addition to traditional career fairs, universities like Imperial College London, Stirling, and Cardiff are also hosting virtual sector spotlight series, which have been met with positive feedback. These sessions allow students to engage with industry professionals from the comfort of their homes, further broadening access to career resources.
Importance of in-person interaction
While virtual events have their advantages, students have expressed a strong preference for in-person interactions.
Many find it challenging to attend evening or off-campus events due to time constraints, making on-campus employer presence crucial. For smaller institutions, this has translated into innovative opportunities for employers to set up branded pop-ups in high-traffic areas, fostering direct engagement with students.
One university highlighted the importance of timing for employers, noting that application deadlines are increasingly early in the academic year. This can create a stressful environment for students returning to campus.
They emphasised the need for employers to maintain a presence at all universities, as being absent from local institutions can negatively impact their brand reputation among students.
How employers are engaging students
Employers are adapting their strategies to better connect with students. One employer mentioned their initiative to integrate guest lecturers into the curriculum, linking real-world experiences with academic learning.
Meanwhile, another outlined a more varied approach to university engagement, employing branded pop-ups and various activities to maximise reach.
Emerging organisations like Huzzle are also making waves, partnering with student societies to enhance employer visibility on campus. Additionally, initiatives such as Workplace 101 sessions at Glasgow University are gaining traction, equipping students with the employability skills that many employers seek.
Alumni involvement remains a powerful tool at these events. Universities have found success in inviting former students who have secured graduate schemes to share their experiences, providing current students with relatable insights and inspiration.
Careers events ROI
Interestingly, the topic of return on investment (ROI) from career fairs remains a nuanced discussion. Many employers expressed scepticism about the tangible benefits of attending such events, often preferring to host activities in their own offices for a more immersive experience. Many organisations struggle to effectively track engagement metrics, leading to uncertainty about the value of these events.
A university participating in the discussion addressed this head-on, suggesting that ROI should not be the sole metric for measuring success in career fairs.
They noted that real benefits may take years to manifest, urging employers to invest in relationships and presence rather than immediate returns. This sentiment resonated with representatives from various universities, reinforcing the idea that long-term engagement is key.
As we reflect on the current campus landscape, it’s evident that students are eager for opportunities to connect with potential employers. Whether through career fairs, branded pop-ups, or virtual spotlight series, the need for meaningful interaction is paramount.
Both employers and universities must navigate the challenges of engagement and ROI, focusing on building lasting relationships that will ultimately benefit both parties in the long run. The journey continues, and it’s exciting to see how these dynamics will evolve in the coming years.