Careers fairs
We organise a range of fairs throughout the year where you can have direct contact with recruiters.
Scroll down for details of of our next fairs and please feel free to get in touch if you'd like to know more.
If you are an employer interested in taking part in our events, there is further information on our services for business pages.
Upcoming events
The Graduate Jobs and Placements Fair
Date: Wednesday 6 November 2024
Time: 10:30 - 15:30
Location: Student Central, University of Bradford
Our biggest careers fair of the year.
Ideal for final year students to explore a range of options including graduate schemes and jobs as well as further study opportunities
And great for first and second year students looking for industrial placement an summer internships.
Who are the careers fairs for?
The simple answer is everybody:
- First and second years - find your perfect placement or internship for your middle years. This is your chance to chat with organisations and get a feel if they are right for you. Look out for part-time jobs too, especially at our September fair, and interesting things to do with your summer at our fair in May.
- Final year students - discover your ideal graduate role at the autumn fair. You'll have the opportunity to meet a wide range of employers from various industries and don't forget that there are many roles within a given sector, e.g. management and accounting roles within the health sector. If you're still unsure about what you'd like to do after graduation, there's another chance to explore your options at our summer fair in May.
- Graduates - previous University of Bradford graduates are welcome to attend our fairs and apply for jobs.
We endeavour to make our fairs are accessible to all, so please get in touch if there is anything we can do to improve your experience.
Preparing for the fair
Careers fairs are a great opportunity to network with employers, gain an insight into different roles and make connections that could eventually help you get a job. Here are some tips to help you make the most of the event:
Before the fair
- Review your CV: Make sure it’s up-to-date and tailored to the types of roles you’re interested in. Consider getting feedback from from the Career and Employability Services or by reading our information on CVs or drop into our CV clinic at the fair.
- Research companies: Check who's attending, visit their websites and make a list of who you want to see to use your time effectively
- Keep an open mind and consider all the options available.
- Know your skills: Reflect on your strengths and how they align with the roles you’re interested in.
- Practice your elevator pitch: prepare a brief introduction that hightlights your interests, motivations and qualifications.
On the day
- Allocate sufficient time: allow yourself at least a couple of hours.
- Bring some paper copies of your updated CV.
- Be confident and courteous
- Take notes.
Prepare some questions – here are some ideas to get you started:
- Can you tell me about the work experience, placement and internship opportunities within your organisation?
- What do you consider to be the particular strengths of the organisation?
- What sets your company apart from others in the industry?
- What are the future developments in the organisation or industry?
- How do you typically recruit - are there any specific methods and selection criteria?
- What are there opportunities for ongoing training?
- How would I be supported in the role?
- Can they describe the working culture and environment?
First impressions really do count
- Dress professionally and maintain a positive attitude, smile and greet employers confidently.
- Introduce yourself: Share information about your course and career aspirations. Prepare questions to ask employers.
- Highlight your skills and experience: emphasise your degree, work experience, and relevant skills. Explain how these can benefit the company.
- Express Interest in the company: Show enthusiasm for specific aspects of the company’s work and gather inside knowledge for future applications or interviews.
- Treat the fair as a first stage interview: recruiters will be looking for impressive candidates and will remember those people who made an extra effort .
- Take notes: after each discussion, including the names of anyone you speak to.
- Mobile etiquette: Keep your phone on silent or turn it off during conversations.
- Have an updated CV ready: Avoid fumbling by having your CV easily accessible.
After the fair
- Review your notes: it will help to reinforce what you learned and ensures you don’t miss any crucial details.
- Explore company website: reading the 'About Us' sections on company websites provides insights into their mission, values, and culture. It also helps you tailor your applications and interviews to align with their goals.
- Follow Up with contacts: Email and LinkIn with any contacts you made and thank them for their time. Building these connections can lead to future opportunities.
- Start applying and don't forget that we're here to help.
And finally... enjoy the experience
Networking events can be nerve-wracking, but try to enjoy the process. Meeting new people, learning about different roles, and envisioning your dream job can be exciting!
We are sure that you will have a successful and enjoyable day but if you have any queries come and find us at one of our stands.
Look out for our online feedback survey which we send out after the fair and please fill it in - your feedback helps us to plan future fairs.
Get ready for the fair
National recruitment events
As well as the events we organise, there are also many other graduate recruitment events throughout the year (in person and online) that you may be interested in, which can be targeted to a specific sector or industry, employer, or focus on jobs by region.