What They Are
At employer information sessions you will have the opportunity to meet with potential employers, learn more about their organizations, and ask questions about their hiring processes.
Sessions typically begin with employers providing background information about their organization and any available positions. The sessions then open up for audience questions. These sessions are great for learning more about office culture, finding out about available positions, connecting with a staff member/s, and getting insider information on the application process.
How to Prepare
Research the Employer – Review their website, recent news, and job postings to understand their mission and current priorities. Find out as much as you can about the organization on your own so that you can ask relevant questions during the session. Prepare Questions – Ask about organizational culture, career paths, and desired skills for hires. Avoid questions that the answers to are easily found online. Here are some useful questions to ask employers:- What qualities do you look for in job candidates?
- What skills are most important to this position?
- What are some of the biggest challenges facing your organization?
- What does a typical day in the office look like for someone in this role?
- How would you describe the office culture?
- What makes an application stand out?
- What is the timeline for the hiring process?
Test Your Tech – If the session is remote, ensure your internet, microphone, and camera work properly. Use a quiet, well-lit space if possible.During the Session
Oftentimes, information sessions are hosted by individuals who are directly involved in their organization’s hiring process. This is an opportune time for networking.
Engage Actively – If remote, keep your camera on (strongly recommended if possible), nod, answer questions, and participate in the chat. If in person, stay off your device and stay actively attentive and engaged. Take Notes – Jot down key insights, employer names, and follow-up actions. Introduce Yourself – If there’s an opportunity, share your name, program, and interest in the organization. If you’re doing so in a group setting, remember to keep your contributions professional and relevant to the group. Avoid oversharing personal information, and focus on topics that will be helpful and informative for everyone attending.After the Session
If you’re interested in the organization/opportunities after the session, you might take the following steps.
Follow Up – Connect with speakers on LinkedIn and send a thank-you email referencing something specific from the session that resonated for you. Apply Strategically – Tailor your resume and cover letter based on what you learned. Follow Through – Follow any instructions, in a timely manner, that were provided to you during the session. Stay in Touch – Reach out periodically with thoughtful follow-ups.
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