Employability Blog

No shopping, cafes, parties, beaches etc etc! How are you getting on in this surreal world we’re temporarily inhabiting?  Already bored and looking for something to get your teeth into? How about using the time to get ready for the workforce?

Weddings, funerals, medical appointments, courtroom processes - the happy, the sad, the bad, the ugly - As the messenger New Zealand Sign Language Interpreters are the conduit for all information. It's a job where you are the focus of attention but can't control the message.

Scrum master Siobhan Flynn doesn’t chase a rugby ball around a field or hook her arms around someone’s hairy thighs. Nothing like that, much to the surprise of some people.

“Even though my title says scrum master, it has nothing to do with rugby. I’m not even a sporty person,” laughs Siobhan.

Let's face it, Kiwis are not great at telling people about themselves, or heaven forbid, actually talking themselves up about anything. Am I right?

Yet this is really what you have to do when we’re told to find our “authentic selves” when talking to employers at events or putting a CV and cover letter together.

Busy, noisy and energising – the Business and Economics and Law Career Fairs last week were buzzing as students met employers and found out about job possibilities. Although some students find it difficult to approach organisations, career fairs are a great place to get in front of potential employers.

Employability and career opportunities are hot topics over March with three career fairs running within four weeks, along with multiple employer presentations and preparatory workshops for students. Employers come on campus to meet up with potential employees.

Within a couple of weeks you’ll have the opportunity to attend career fairs for Business & Economics, Law and ICT and Engineering. Later in the year there will be career fairs for other faculties. They offer a great opportunity for you to start meeting employers looking for graduates and interns BUT they will not necessarily be offering jobs on the day. Why not?

Make the most of the opportunity to meet a large number of employers on city campus at AUT by attending the upcoming career fairs this semester.  Are you ready to shine like a peacock at the next career fair? Here are tips on how to put your best foot forward.

Employers love meeting people who are proactive, curious and well prepared. They will remember you if you take an interest, ask questions and show an understanding of what their organisation does. And soon there will be crowds of employers coming on campus to career fairs to meet you.

First week jitters? Excited but nervous about taking the first step towards the rest of your life and career. Most students do feel a bit overwhelmed initially. Totally normal – just don’t forget to check Employability and Careers services out once you’ve settled in. Who….?