September doesn’t just mark the start of classes, it also launches new graduate recruitment season. And the Student Success Centre is here to help.
According to TalentEgg, a Canadian career site for students and recent graduates, 70 per cent of employers do their hiring in the fall. Unfortunately, the research also shows 81 per cent of students aren’t job hunting at that time.
Are you one of the students who didn’t know about the new graduate recruitment process?
If so, don’t panic. Each summer, the centre connects with hundreds of organizations to source job openings, schedule hiring events (information sessions) and coordinate Western’s Career Fair. So, how do you get involved?
The first step is making some career decisions. Consider your skills and interests. Western has the resources available online to guide this process, or you are welcome to book an appointment and meet with a career counselor.
Next, personalize your resume. The Western Employment Resource Centre can provide feedback. There is no need to book an appointment, just drop in during office hours.
Finally, when you are ready to meet employers, log into CareerCentral using your Western user name and password. Click on the ‘events’ tab; here you will find a number of events hosted by a variety of organizations. Most events will include an organization description, indicate the roles they are hiring for and include registration instructions.
You may be asking yourself: Do I really need to attend these events to find a job? Yes. This is your opportunity to build the network that will advance your career. More than 80 per cent of jobs are never posted. Even if you aren’t successful in obtaining this role, you will have developed valuable connections and you may be considered for future opportunities.
Want to gain a competitive edge? Attend a workshop at 4:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 12, to learn how you can connect with employers, uncover the hidden job market and learn about other effective job search strategies. Or learn what to say after you say hello at a workshop at 12:30 p.m. Monday, Sept. 23, to learn how you can be prepared for the upcoming job fair.
Register for all workshops at westerncareercentral.ca
Finally, if you ever have any questions, just ask. The Student Success Centre is open 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday in the University Community Centre, room 210. Contact via e-mail at successcentre@uwo.ca or call 519-661-3559.