# Category:graduateland
**Source**: https://blogs.qub.ac.uk/careers/category/graduateland/
**Parent**: https://blogs.qub.ac.uk/careers/2020/06/11/alumni-inspiration/
Leaders in industry gave some valuable advice to students and graduates during some inspiring presentations and workshops. Here are some of the takeaways from Day Two.
**Neil Chief Economist on Island of Ireland at EY gave the keynote speech.**
**Here is what he had to say:**
“The most important message for students is to remain positive and upbeat despite what you read. You can very easily feel daunted or intimidating. At a time of change or disruption, there are plenty of opportunities. If you think of it this way, when there is lots of problems, the world needs problem-solvers.”
“Keep your sense of positivity, observe and learn but don’t be intimidated as if that will close down opportunities.”
“The world is always changing. The idea you can map out a career ten or 15 years is not true, you have to keep flexibility in your mind and approach.”
“The place you thought you would get a job, that may not be the case. Think what you enjoy and what you like doing. Think what competencies or skills you have. Be less predetermined in what those opportunities might be.”
“Be open mind and absorb what you can. Recruitment is a two-way thing. It’s not just what you have to do to get an opportunity, it’s asking yourself, can be at my best in that organisation?.”
**Lessons from Leaders**
**Mark McCormack, Head of Technology at Aflac**
“Problem-solving is one of the most important skills you can develop for any career. It’s what separates us from the computers; that and empathy – and the craic.”
“I might work with computers but it’s the people that make the work interesting and fun.”
“You learn that the things that make you successful in one part of your career are not necessarily the things that make you successful later on. You have to learn and adapt. If you are not learning, then you are probably not enjoying yourself.”
“We look for three things: adaptability, resilience and reinvention.”
“Stay flexible, keep learning and find some good people to work with and you can’t go wrong.”
**Lessons from Leaders**
**Mark Dougan, Director, Prince’s Trust NI**
“Courageous leaders are stepping up every single day in NI: teachers, nurses, youth workers, business professionals and young people like yourselves… you are quite literally being made into a leader as a result of this crisis.”
“Lead with courage with a small l.”
“The only thing certain is uncertainty. We have to learn to co-exist with uncertainty.”
“You are courageous leaders in the making and at this moment you need to intentionally decide to get in the game.”
“Yes, it’s challenging and you will make mistakes but the more you do, the more rewarding it becomes as you develop your skills as an effective leader.”
“Everyone is struggling with different challenges and none of those challenges outrank others. Think intentionally how you enable others to lead with courage; set them goals and give them clarity that they need to be courageous leaders in their own right and they will bring their best selves to work every day.”
“Be curious. Ask questions, lots of questions. There is no such thing as a stupid question.”
Missed a presentation or workshop?
You can re-watch on our past events page here:
<https://www.qub.ac.uk/directorates/sgc/careers/careers-events/pastevents/>
- Tags
[employers](https://blogs.qub.ac.uk/careers/tag/employers/), [graduate jobs](https://blogs.qub.ac.uk/careers/tag/graduate-jobs/), [graduate recruitment and placement fair](https://blogs.qub.ac.uk/careers/tag/graduate-recruitment-and-placement-fair/), [Leadership](https://blogs.qub.ac.uk/careers/tag/leadership/)
Some highlights from our recent virtual fair. Don’t forget you can re-watch the presentations and workshops on [our events page](https://www.qub.ac.uk/directorates/sgc/careers/careers-events/pastevents/).
- Tags
[employers](https://blogs.qub.ac.uk/careers/tag/employers/), [graduate internships](https://blogs.qub.ac.uk/careers/tag/graduate-internships/), [graduate jobs](https://blogs.qub.ac.uk/careers/tag/graduate-jobs/), [graduate placements](https://blogs.qub.ac.uk/careers/tag/graduate-placements/), [graduate recruitment and placement fair](https://blogs.qub.ac.uk/careers/tag/graduate-recruitment-and-placement-fair/), [graduate success](https://blogs.qub.ac.uk/careers/tag/graduate-success/)
If you missed our inspiring lessons from leaders and workshop on strength-based interviews, on Day One, here are key takeaways. Don’t forget, you can catch up on all our past event here:
<https://www.qub.ac.uk/directorates/sgc/careers/careers-events/pastevents/>
**Takeaway 1:** **There is psychology behind the graduate application process**
Sarah McKeag, Associate Director, from EY Belfast, who also sponsor the event, gave an insightful talk on their strength-based recruitment process. They engage the Centre for Applied Positive Psychology to help assess students. It’s not as scary as it sounds. Sarah explained that strength-based recruitment is not about the experience you have had, but about your potential as a leader.
“The different between strength and competency based interviews is that competency can be learned. Strength-based assessment is all about your natural energy and enthusiasm. The challenge for students is how they portray that energy during the virtual recruitment process, she said.
**Takeaway 2:Some of the key strengths employers look for**
Sarah listed the ten strengths EY assess against – have them in your mind during the graduate recruitment process:
- Accountable
- Analytical
- Agile
- Adaptable
- Curious
- In the know
- Number savvy
- Resilient
- Strong communicator
- Team Player
“We are not looking for students to have reams of work experience or to have done work experience with us or another accountancy firm,” said Sarah. “In our assessment centre, we will give candidates a situation or a task and we will ask them how they feel about that. We may give them a number of tasks and ask them to choose their preferred five. We may give them a group activity. Afterwards, we ask them to evaluate what they would do differently,” said Sarah.
**Takeaway 3:How you cope during lockdown could help get you hired**
Being adaptable and resilient is huge for students who we have onboarded in last six months. This year, many students started uni in a different way than they would have envisaged. Things are changing for us all. It’s how you manage that change process,” says Sarah.
**Takeaway 4:Teamwork matters**
“Listening to colleagues, make them feel valued and supported. Everyone has an important role to play. We are one big family. Leadership and Teamwork is about integrity and treating colleagues and our teams with respect whilst modelling and expecting excellence by helping others fulfil their potential.” said Sara Venning from NI Water
**Takeaway 5:Challenges keep work interesting**
“I’ve been Chief Executive for siz year. I love my job I love that no two days are the same. I’m always learning something new, constantly innovating and problem solving, and I love that what we do makes a difference to people’s lives across NI,” said Sara Venning from NI Water
While Natasha Sayee from SONI Ltd added: “I am passionate about what I do. If it’s challenging, then I bring my best every day. If it forces me to drive hard, then it is something I will stick with.
**Takeaway 6:You can’t be an island**
“To be truly successful, you need to take your passion and use it to collaborate with and motivate others. Passionate people are fierce; we are strong. Don’t do a solo run, find your squad, you will achieve so much more together,” said Natasha Sayee from SONI Ltd.
**Takeaway 7:Go in strong in a virtual interview**
“Plant yourself like an oak tree and allow yourself time to blossom,” said Natasha Sayee from SONI Ltd.
- Tags
[graduate internships](https://blogs.qub.ac.uk/careers/tag/graduate-internships/), [graduate jobs](https://blogs.qub.ac.uk/careers/tag/graduate-jobs/), [graduate placements](https://blogs.qub.ac.uk/careers/tag/graduate-placements/), [graduate recruitment and placement fair](https://blogs.qub.ac.uk/careers/tag/graduate-recruitment-and-placement-fair/), [graduate success](https://blogs.qub.ac.uk/careers/tag/graduate-success/)
If you missed Day One of our Graduate Recruitment and Placement Fair, you missed some golden nuggets of advice about graduate recruitment. Lucky for you, we’ve pulled together some top tips below. If you want more expert help navigating the graduate recruitment landscape, don’t miss Day Two of the fair.
Register here: <https://virtualcareersfairs.qub.ac.uk/events>
1. **Career paths are not linear**
“Your career can be a winding path, take opportunities that come your way. You might find your first job isn’t your dream job but it will allow you to grow into a role that is your dream job.”
***Mary McLaughlin, Queen’s Careers Consultant.***
**2. Networking is a key stage of research**
“Networking is so important to learn about the career paths of other people and to where they are. It can help you determine if you are a good fit but also help you learn about other jobs you might not otherwise have heard about.”
***Diane Masson, Queen’s Careers Consultant***
**3. Virtual Fairs have the same principals as traditional fairs.**
“The principals of a virtual fair are the same. It’s about networking with employers. Finding out about the work culture as well. Is it an organisation you would thrive in and develop and grow? Does it sit with your own values and your own interests? It’s also about finding out about job search and recruitment. Asking questions about when employers recruit and how they recruit. What are those cycles, do you know when their deadlines are? What is there selection process? A Fair is opportunity to find out about those things. It is unlikely that you will leave with a job, but you will leave armed with information. The more informed you are, the more equipped you are to make good career decisions. And the better informed you will be about how to perform well in the selection process.”
***Diane Masson, Queen’s Careers Consultant***
**4. MyFuture contains a wealth of opportunities**
“Jobs that are advertised on [MyFuture](https://qub-csm.symplicity.com/students/?signin_tab=0) are from employers who are targeting Queen’s students, so employers who are on MyFuture want YOU.
“You can find placements, internships, Global Opportunities and even insight days, which will enable you to find out about the organisation. International students can access Student Circus to find work in the UK. You just need your QUB email and password to access a range of opportunities. You can set filters for industry and sector and get job alerts specific for you.”
***Diane Masson, Queen’s Careers Consultant***
**5. Read the small print on a job description**
“Read the information about a job and the detail. You might dismiss a job without reading the detail and if you read the information, you might discover it is applicable to you.”
***Diane Masson, Queen’s Careers Consultant***
**6. There are loads of places to find jobs**
“Websites like [Prospects](https://www.prospects.ac.uk), [Target Jobs](https://targetjobs.co.uk), [GradIreland](https://gradireland.com/internships) are a great resources. You also have industry specific sites like [Gradcracker](https://www.gradcracker.com) – which is STEM sector specific. Company websites are also a good resource. Big graduate recruiters have lots of info on own websites and of course you can also find lots of information of the [Careers Service website](https://www.qub.ac.uk/directorates/sgc/careers/).”
***Diane Masson, Queen’s Careers Consultant***
**7. It’s never too early to look for jobs**
“Don’t leave to last minute. That applies to both your job search and the application process. It is never too early to start your research. That is what this virtual fair is all about. Research sectors you want to work in.”
***Diane Masson, Queen’s Careers Consultant***
**8. Knowing yourself is half the battle**
“Knowing yourself and identifying your skills is really important. Think through your experiences and how those are going to help in your career.”
***Mary McLaughlin, Queen’s Careers Consultant***
**9. Don’t downplay your skills**
“Sometimes we have a tendency to downplay our skills. Think through part-time jobs and what type of skills you learned. Those are skills any employer will want to have. It’s not just that you stacked shelves at the supermarket, for example, you also communicated with your colleagues and helped others on the team. Those are skills that make you a great fit for any role.”
***Mary McLaughlin, Queen’s Careers Consultant***
- Tags
[consultants](https://blogs.qub.ac.uk/careers/tag/consultants/), [graduate internships](https://blogs.qub.ac.uk/careers/tag/graduate-internships/), [graduate jobs](https://blogs.qub.ac.uk/careers/tag/graduate-jobs/), [graduate recruitment and placement fair](https://blogs.qub.ac.uk/careers/tag/graduate-recruitment-and-placement-fair/), [MyFuture](https://blogs.qub.ac.uk/careers/tag/myfuture/)
## (Psst! There are over 300 jobs on offer over the two days!)
Wow! What a jam-packed day of amazing exhibitors we had yesterday at the Graduate Recruitment and Placement Fair. We have over 70+ more organisations coming today, so make sure you come back and check them out. The Day Two event lobby is already open, so you can pop in and check out employers and jobs, request interview slots with selected employers and follow employers to receive alerts.
Here are just some of the awesome companies signed up for Day Two – they are all hiring students just like you! If you haven’t registered yet, you can do so here:
<https://virtualcareersfairs.qub.ac.uk/events>
**A&L Goodbody**
A&L Goodbody is a leading Irish law firm
<https://www.algoodbody.com/>
**Accenture**
Accenture plc is a [multinational](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Multinational_corporation) [professional services](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Professional_services) company and a [Fortune Global 500](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fortune_Global_500) company.
<https://www.accenture.com/gb-en>
**Alchemy Technology Services**
Global centre of excellence for insurance software implementation
<https://www.alchemytechs.com/>
**[Almac Group](https://www.almacgroup.com/)**
The Almac Group is an established contract development and manufacturing organisation providing an extensive range of integrated services across the drug development lifecycle to the pharmaceutical and biotech sectors globally.
**[AquaQ Analytics](https://www.aquaq.co.uk/)**
AquaQ provides consulting services to several top tier investment banks.
**Bank of Ireland**
Bank of Ireland Group plc is a commercial [bank](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bank) operation in Ireland and one of the traditional ‘[Big Four](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Big_Four_(banking)#Ireland)‘ Irish banks.
<https://www.bankofireland.com/>
**[Belfast Health & Social Care Trust](https://belfasttrust.hscni.net/)**
The Belfast Health and Social Care Trust (BHSCT) is a health organisation covering Belfast, Northern Ireland
**Bombardier**
Bombardier is a global leader in the transportation industry, creating innovative and game-changing planes and trains.
<https://www.bombardier.com/en/home.html>
**British Army, The – Army Careers**
The Army is always recruiting, and there are a wide range of roles available for both officers and soldiers.
<https://www.army.mod.uk/careers/>
**British Council – IAESTE**
From electronics in Japan to earthquake detection technology in Colombia, an IAESTE placement is a guaranteed way to boost your career.
<https://www.britishcouncil.org/study-work-abroad/outside-uk/iaeste>
**BSG Civil Engineering Ltd**
BSG Civil Engineering Ltd is a Premier Civil Engineering Contractor, delivering all Multi Discipline Schemes.
https://www.bsgcivilengineering.co.uk/
**Carson McDowell**
Carson McDowell is Northern Ireland’s most dynamic law firm.
<https://www.carson-mcdowell.com/>
**CDE Global Ltd**
CDE Global is the world’s no 1 wet processing equipment company.
<https://www.cdeglobal.com/>
**Citi**
A global bank providing financial services.
<https://www.citigroup.com/citi/>
**[CK International](https://www.ckinternational.co.uk/)**
CK International is one of the world’s leading waste baler manufacturers.
**Clear Pharmacy**
Clear Pharmacy is a family run group of community pharmacies
> [Home](https://www.clearpharmacy.com/)
**CME Group**
The world’s leading and most diverse derivatives marketplace.
<https://www.cmegroup.com/>
**CommScope**
CommScope helps design, build and manage wired and wireless networks around the world.
<https://www.commscope.com/>
**[Cygilant UK Ltd](https://www.cygilant.com/)**
Cygilant provides Cybersecurity-as-a-Service.
**Department for the Economy**
The Department for the Economy is a devolved Northern Ireland government department in the Northern Ireland Executive.
<https://www.economy-ni.gov.uk/>
**DPS Group Global**
DPS Group is a global consulting, engineering and construction management company.
<https://www.dpsgroupglobal.com/>
**Dunbia**
Dunbia is a [red meat](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Red_meat) processor that sources and manufactures beef, lamb and pork products for retail, commercial and foodservice markets locally, nationally and internationally.
> [Better Food Naturally.](https://dunbia.com/)
**ESO Solutions UK Ltd**
ESO offers an integrated suite of software products for EMS agencies, fire departments, and hospitals.
<https://www.eso.com/>
**EY (UK)**
A multinational professional services network (Accountancy Firm).
<https://www.ey.com/en_uk>
**Farrans**
Farrans Construction is an established building and civil engineering contractor.
<https://www.farrans.com/>
**fDi Intelligence**
fDi Intelligence, a service from the Financial Times, is the largest FDI centre of excellence globally.
<https://www.fdiintelligence.com/>
**FinTrU**
Multi-award winning Financial Services company providing resourcing solutions for Global Investment Banks
<https://www.fintru.com/>
**Fox Contracts**
An award winning Northern Irish based Civil Engineering company
<https://www.fox-contracts.com/>
**Graham Construction**
A large award winning UK construction company.
<https://www.graham.co.uk/>
**Harbinson Mulholland**
Award winning accountants rooted in Northern Ireland,
<https://www.harbinson-mulholland.com/>
**HMRC**
The Non-ministerial department of the UK Government responsible for the collection of taxes and other forms of support within the UK.
<https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/hm-revenue-customs>
**IBM**
American cloud platform and cognitive solutions multinational technology and consulting company
[www.ibm.com](http://www.ibm.com/)
**iManage**
Large software company focused exclusively on professional work product management.
[www.imanage.com](http://www.imanage.com/)
**Infosys**
Global leader in next-generation digital services and consulting.
[www.infosys.com/](http://www.infosys.com/)
**InterTradeIreland – Career Boost**
Provider of practical cross-border business funding, intelligence and contacts.
[www.intertradeireland.com/](http://www.intertradeireland.com/)
**Invest NI**
[www.investni.com/](http://www.investni.com/)
Invest Northern Ireland is Northern Ireland’s regional economic development agency.
**Jacobs UK Ltd**
<http://www.jacobs.com/>
Jacobs is multidisciplinary engineering company that operates globally.
**Jameson Graduate Programme**
Part of the Irish Distillers Company. It is the largest distiller of Irish whiskey.
<https://www.jamesongraduateprogramme.com/>
**Jones Day**
Commercial Law Firm
<https://www.jonesday.com/en>
**Kainos Software Ltd**
Large NI & UK based software company.
[www.kainos.com](http://www.kainos.com/)
**Kingspan Group**
Building Materials company based in Ireland.
<https://www.kingspan.com/>
**KTP@QUB**
Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) at Queen’s University Belfast
[https://www.qub.ac.uk/sites/graduate-support/employers/Knowledge-Transfer-Partnership-(KTP)-at-Queen’s/](https://www.qub.ac.uk/sites/graduate-support/employers/Knowledge-Transfer-Partnership-(KTP)-at-Queen's/)
**Lakeland Dairies**
Irish Dairy Co-operative and manufacturer of application specific food ingredients.
[www.lakeland.ie/](http://www.lakeland.ie/)
**Marks & Spencer**
Large major multinational retailer.
[www.marksandspencers.com/](http://www.marksandspencers.com/)
**Marsh and McLennan**
*Marsh* & *McLennan* is the world’s leading professional services firm in the areas of risk, strategy and people.
<https://www.mmc.com/>
**McAleer & Rushe**
*McAleer* and *Rushe* is one of the UK’s largest design and build construction companies
> [Home](https://mcaleer-rushe.co.uk/)
**McCann FitzGerald**
Leading Irish Law firm
<https://www.mccannfitzgerald.com/>
**MCL InsureTech Ltd**
A high-quality provider of services to the insurance industry.
<http://www.mclinsuretech.co.uk/>
**Mott MacDonald**
Consultancy Firm
<https://www.mottmac.com/>
**MRP**
Sales & Marketing Innovation That Fosters Business Transformation.
**[Musgrave Limited](https://www.musgravegroup.com/)**
Irish Food Wholesaler
**Options Technology**
The leading provider of cloud-enabled managed services to the global capital markets.
**PA Consulting Group**
Consultancy Firm
<https://www.paconsulting.com/>
**PAC GROUP**
A UK-based leading provider of a diverse range of electrical and mechanical engineering applications and solutions.
<https://www.pacgroup.co.uk/>
**Philip Morris Limited**
**An** American [multinational](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Multinational_corporation) cigarette and [tobacco](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tobacco) manufacturing company, with products sold in over 180 countries.
<https://www.pmi.com/>
**PM Group**
International Project Delivery Firm
<https://www.pmgroup-global.com/>
**Puppet**
Automation software development company
<https://puppet.com/>
**PwC**
Accountancy Firm
<https://www.pwc.co.uk/>
**Randox Laboratories Ltd**
Randox provides clinical diagnostic solutions to laboratories worldwide and is dedicated to improving health on a global scale.
https://www.randox.com/
**Rapid7**
*Rapid7* powers the practice of SecOps by delivering shared visibility, analytics, and automation to unite security, IT, and DevOps teams.
<https://www.rapid7.com/>
**Specialisterne**
A socially innovative company where the majority of employees have a diagnosis on the autism spectrum.
> [Specialisterne Global](https://specialisterne.com/)
**Synergy Learning**
Experts in creating learning with impact. Premium Certified Moodle Services Provider & Platinum Totara Partner.
https://www.synergy-learning.com/
**Terex GB Ltd**
Terex Corporation is a global manufacturer of lifting and material processing products and services delivering lifecycle solutions.
<https://www.terex.com/>
**Thermo Fisher Scientific**
An American provisioner of scientific instrumentation, reagents and consumables, and software and services to healthcare, life science, and other laboratories in academia, government, and industry.
<https://www.thermofisher.com/uk/en/home.html>
**TLT NI LLP**
Commercial Law Firm
<https://www.tltsolicitors.com/locations/belfast/>
**TPICAP**
**TP ICAP plc** is a global firm of professional intermediaries that operates in the world’s financial, energy and commodities markets
<https://tpicap.com/tpicap/>
**[TriMedika Ltd](https://trimedika.com/)**
Company developing innovative medical devices.
**Version 1 Ltd**
Version 1 proves that IT can make a real difference to our customers’ businesses.
https://www.version1.com/
**WuXi Biologics**
WuXi Biologics is a Chinese headquartered organization that provides open-access, integrated technology platforms for biologics drug development.
<https://www.wuxibiologics.com/>
- Tags
[graduate internships](https://blogs.qub.ac.uk/careers/tag/graduate-internships/), [graduate jobs](https://blogs.qub.ac.uk/careers/tag/graduate-jobs/), [graduate placements](https://blogs.qub.ac.uk/careers/tag/graduate-placements/), [graduate recruitment](https://blogs.qub.ac.uk/careers/tag/graduate-recruitment/), [graduate recruitment and placement fair](https://blogs.qub.ac.uk/careers/tag/graduate-recruitment-and-placement-fair/)
At our recent Graduate Recruitment and Placement Fair, we hosted over 130 top employers from all industries and sectors. We took the opportunity to grill them for their best career advice, so you can learn from leaders at the top of their game. Prepare to be inspired…
**Use Queen’s Careers Service**
“I would advise students to engage with the University Careers Service. Guidance from careers advisors in making applications, developing your CV and identifying future career paths is invaluable. The University Careers Service works closely with employers such as Almac, they know what we are looking for and can really provide added value through employability training and support. Programmes such as Queen’s Degree Plus Award provide students with a great opportunity to develop and hone the key skills needed to succeed within the workplace.”
***Kim McAllister, Talent Acquisition Manager, Almac Group***
**Keep an open mind**
“If I was to go back in time, when I was starting my career, the key thing I would say is to keep an open mind. Back when I was finishing my undergraduate degree, I had a very specific idea of what I wanted to do but I ended up going down a route I wouldn’t have imagined in terms of working in recruitment and HR. I studied drama and English initially and the field of work I am in now is really focussed on people. I actually draw on a lot of the stud I learned in terms of communication styles and people from my undergraduate degree into my current role. So yeah, keep an open mind when you are finishing your degree about what it is you want to do. Be patient. Sometimes it can take a while to find the right kind of fit for you when you are graduating. Even in your first year or two of a graduate role you want to get everything right from the first go. It is okay to make mistakes along the way so be patient with yourself.”
***Adrian McCarthy is the manager of For Purpose***
**Back yourself**
“Always take the opportunities, don’t doubt yourself. You don’t know where they will lead and what you will learn along the way.”
***Joelene Ridgill***, ***Purchasing Manager at******Seacoya* *Group Ltd***
**Build up your work-related experience**
“I’d say, try to get as much experience as possible whether it be through part time jobs, internships or volunteering. For example, working in a shop or restaurant…if you can handle angry customers, you can handle anything!
“Also remember that it’s not just about having the grades. Yes, they are important, but transferrable skills such as proficiency in Microsoft packages, time management, first aid training or experience in organising events, to name a few, are also important. A wellrounded individual who can adapt to different environments and maybe bring something new to the table is very appealing to employers.”
***Robbie Barr, Partner, Muldoon & Co***
**Engage with employers**
“Go to as many events run by employers as possible. They really give you an idea of the culture of the workplace and a feel for the people that work there. Liberty IT have a Tech Carnival event which we make as reflective of our culture as possible, it’s pretty casual, has a focus on our people’s passion for technology and is full of employees that are happy to tell you anything you want to know about working for LIT.”
***Birgitta Swanberg, Senior Talent Acquisition Specialist, Liberty IT***
**Have a career plan**
“Know what your end goal is and plan your next move from there. Know what you need to do now to get where you need to go. Look for opportunities, even if you take small steps, those steps might take you closer to your end goal, whatever they may be. Be patient but don’t settle. Do your research and make a plan. This will help you when you want to apply for promotion or career advancement.”
***Clodagh Mckeefry, Corporate Recruiter, MRP***
**Try new things**
“Try new things and put yourself out there. You could end up in the best position by taking a chance and trying something new. Sometimes it is good to fall outside of the box and not to limit yourself to obvious career choices. Skills are interchangeable.”
***Jared Kearney, Senior Campus Recruiter,**Citi**UK and**Citi**Ireland***
- Tags
[Advice](https://blogs.qub.ac.uk/careers/tag/advice/), [employers](https://blogs.qub.ac.uk/careers/tag/employers/), [graduate jobs](https://blogs.qub.ac.uk/careers/tag/graduate-jobs/), [graduate recruitment and placement fair](https://blogs.qub.ac.uk/careers/tag/graduate-recruitment-and-placement-fair/), [graduate success](https://blogs.qub.ac.uk/careers/tag/graduate-success/), [graduate training schemes](https://blogs.qub.ac.uk/careers/tag/graduate-training-schemes/)
We asked some top NI employers for their careers fairs tips ahead of our Spring Recruitment Fair on 9 February. Here is what they had to say:
**Help employers get to know you**
“Ensure your profile is up to date. That will help us get to know you. Get to know us by doing some research ahead of the event. Careers fairs are excellent networking opportunities, so stay in touch! Most importantly, enjoy it.”
***Clodagh Nugent, Talent Acquisition***, ***Allstate***
**Do your research**
“Employers are impressed by students who have taken the time to do some research before the event. Appearing informed about the organisation and industry that is of interest to you demonstrates a genuine motivation and creates a great impression. Doing research beforehand and targeting relevant organisations also ensures that the student gets the most out of the event, making the best use of their valuable time.”
***Kim McAllister, Almac Group, Talent Acquisition Manager***
**Have questions ready**
“I notice students who have already done a bit of research and know what they are looking for. Have specific questions about the company and the role itself then I’ll definitely remember you.”
***Elisa Herbig. Talent Acquisition Specialist at AquaQ Analytics***
**Come prepared**
“Being prepared if you are going to speak to a recruiter. If you are going to a stand whether it’s in person or virtual maybe having researched that organisation a bit beforehand and having a few questions in mind that you might like to ask them. It does really stand out if someone has looked into your organisation beforehand and if they have shown kind of a real interest in it. Often times as well, the people who are going to be at these recruitment fairs are going to be working for the HR department or the recruitment team for the organisations that they are placed with. Sometimes they have graduates who have been hired there as part of the recruitment team, so it is really good and it does stand out if people have done their research beforehand.”
***Adrian McCarthy, Manager, For Purpose***
**Be willing to learn**
“By asking questions about the company and the careers available. Being open to discuss entry level careers and willing to hear the success stories of people who perhaps started off in summer/temporary roles and are now directors.”
***Joelene Ridgill******, Purchasing Manager at Seacoya Group Ltd***
**Read around your industry**
“An obvious passion for software engineering goes a long way. If you’ve been coding in your spare time, tell us about it. If you’ve read anything interesting about the software engineering industry as a whole, tell us about that too. If you’ve been to any Liberty IT tech talks or events, let us know what you thought of them.”
***Birgitta Swanberg, Senior Talent Acquisition Specialist, Liberty IT***
**Tailor your CV to the role you want**
“Come to the recruitment fair prepared, with an up-to-date CV with you, ensure you are presenting the best version of yourself. Dress for the role that you want; display good communication skills. Speak confidently and articulate your skills and experience clearly. Don’t be afraid to approach us and ask any questions.”
***Chloe Brown, Corporate Recruiter, MRP***
**Use the opportunity to find out about the company**
“Show interest in the company. Ask questions that are more specific. We bring along colleagues of different levels to have a chat and give you the opportunity to find out more.”
***Jared Kearney, Senior Campus Recruiter,**Citi**UK and**Citi**Ireland***
Have you registered for the fair yet? If not, you can do so here:
<https://virtualcareersfairs.qub.ac.uk/events>
- Tags
[employer](https://blogs.qub.ac.uk/careers/tag/employer/), [graduate jobs](https://blogs.qub.ac.uk/careers/tag/graduate-jobs/), [graduate recruitment and placement fair](https://blogs.qub.ac.uk/careers/tag/graduate-recruitment-and-placement-fair/), [graduate success](https://blogs.qub.ac.uk/careers/tag/graduate-success/)
You may have heard that our Graduate Recruitment and Placement Fair is going virtual on Oct 21 and 22. Did you know the event lobby is already open, so you can pop in and check out employers and jobs, request interview slots with selected employers and follow employers to receive alerts.
Here are just some of the awesome companies signed up for Day One – they are all hiring students just like you! If you haven’t registered yet, you can do so here:
<https://virtualcareersfairs.qub.ac.uk/events>
**Abbvie**
Pharmaceutical Research & Development
<https://www.abbvie.co.uk>
**ACCA**
Association of Chartered Certified Accountants
<https://www.accaglobal.com/in/en.html>
**AIB Group**
Financial services group
<https://group.aib.ie>
**[Aiqudo](https://www.aiqudo.com)**
Artificial intelligence-based technology
**Aldi Stores Ltd**
Supermarket chain
<https://www.aldi.co.uk>
**Allen & Overy LLP**
International law firm
<https://www.allenovery.com/en-gb/global>
**Allstate Northern Ireland**
Northern Ireland’s largest IT Company
<https://www.allstate.com/northern-ireland.aspx>
**Analog Devices**
Semiconductor manufacturing company
<https://www.analog.com/en/index.html>
**Andor Technology**
Manufacturer
<https://andor.oxinst.com>
**Arm Ltd**
Semiconductor and software design company
<https://www.arm.com>
**Arthur Cox**
Legal Firm
> [Contact](https://www.arthurcox.com/contact/)
**Arup**
An independent firm of designers, planners, engineers, architects, consultants and technical specialists
<https://www.arup.com>
**[ASM Chartered Accountants](https://www.asmaccountants.com)**
Chartered Accountants
**[Avolon Aerospace Leasing](https://www.avolon.aero)**
A Global leader in aircraft leasing
**Baker McKenzie**
Law firm
<https://www.bakermckenzie.com/en>
**Baker Tilly Mooney Moore**
Accountants & Business Advisers
> [Home Page](https://www.bakertillymooneymoore.co.uk/)
**British Council**
Cultural relations and educational opportunities
<https://www.britishcouncil.org>
**Cadence Design Systems**
Computational software
[https://www.cadence.com/en\_US/home.html#](https://www.cadence.com/en_US/home.html)
**Cavanagh Kelly**
Chartered Accountants
<https://www.cavanaghkelly.com>
**Chartered Accountants Ireland**
Membership body representing 26000 influential members throughout the globe.
<https://www.charteredaccountants.ie>
**Colgate Palmolive**
Global Household & Consumer Products
<https://www.colgatepalmolive.com/en-us>
**Collins Aerospace**
The Future of Aerospace and Defence
<https://www.collinsaerospace.com/en>
**CyberSource, a Visa Solution**
E-commerce credit card payment system management company
<https://www.cybersource.com/en-gb.html>
**DCC**
International sales, marketing and support services group
<https://www.dcc.ie>
**Deloitte UK**
Audit, Consulting, Financial Advisory and Tax
<https://www2.deloitte.com/uk/en.html>
**DLA Piper**
A global law firm
<https://www.dlapiper.com/en/uk/>
**Dynamic Signal**
Trusted Employee Communication
<https://dynamicsignal.com>
**Electricity Supply Board (ESB)**
State owned electricity company operating in Ireland
<https://esb.ie/who-we-are/about-esb>
**Energia Group Limited**
A modern customer centric utility focusing on renewable energy and technology
<https://energiagroup.com>
**Entekra Ltd**
Off-Site Construction
<https://www.entekra.com>
**EY (UK) EVENT SPONSOR!**
Consulting, assurance, tax and transaction services.
<https://www.ey.com/en_gl>
**First Derivative**
A leading provider of products and consulting services to some of the world’s largest finance, technology and energy institution
<https://firstderivative.com>
**Foods Connected Ltd**
Offers all modules and tools **connected** on one cloud-based system for ultimate time and cost efficiency
<https://www.foodsconnected.com>
**GEDA Construction**
A leading Building, Civil Engineering and Property Development Company
> [Home](https://geda.co.uk/)
**Global Payments**
Payment technology and software solutions
<https://www.globalpaymentsinc.com/en-gb>
**GMcG Chartered Accountants**
A leading professional services firm providing a range of strategic and practical Accounting, Taxation and Business Advisory solutions
<https://gmcgca.com>
**Grant Thornton**
Network of independent accounting and consulting member firms
<https://www.grantthornton.co.uk>
**Herbert Smith Freehills LLP**
Leading professional services businesses
<https://www.herbertsmithfreehills.com>
**Hutchinson Engineering**
British made engineering of the highest quality
<https://www.hutchinsonengineering.co.uk>
**Instil Software**
**Software** products and learning experiences
<https://instil.co>
**Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales**
Promotes, develops and supports **chartered accountants** and students across the world
<https://www.icaew.com>
**Intel Ireland**
Advanced manufacturing, cutting edge research and design
<https://www.intel.com/content/www/us/en/jobs/locations/ireland.html>
**Kerry Group**
A public food company headquartered in Ireland
<https://www.kerrygroup.com>
**KPMG (NI & ROI)**
A wide range of audit, tax and advisory service
<https://home.kpmg/ie/en/home/insights/2020/04/kpmg-in-northern-ireland.html>
**Liberty Information Technology**
Innovative technology solutions
<https://www.liberty-it.co.uk>
**Lidl Ireland**
Supermarket chain.
<https://www.lidl.ie>
**Metaswitch Networks**
A pioneering network software provider.
<https://www.metaswitch.com>
**Mills Selig**
Corporate and commercial law firm.
<https://www.millsselig.com>
**Moy Park Ltd**
One of Europe’s leading poultry producers
<https://moypark.com>
**Muldoon & Co**
Firm of accountants in Belfast
<https://www.muldoon-accountants.co.uk>
**NantHealth**
Precision medicine and software
> [Home](https://nanthealth.com/)
**National Treasury Management Agency**
Asset and liability management services to Government
<https://www.ntma.ie>
**Nikon Precision Europe GmbH**
A leading global supplier of Semiconductor lithography systems
> [Homepage](https://www.nikonprecision.com/)
**Northern Ireland Audit Office**
The Local Government Auditor
<https://www.niauditoffice.gov.uk>
**Olenick**
Software Quality Engineering services
**PayPal EMEA**
Online payment solutions
<https://www.paypal.com/uk/webapps/mpp/country-worldwide>
**PepsiCo**
Multinational food, snack and beverage corporation
<https://www.pepsico.com>
**Pinsent Masons**
International professional services business
<https://www.pinsentmasons.com>
**PKF-FPM Accountants**
A leading **accountancy** and business advisory practice
https://pkffpm.com
**Proofpoint**
Cybersecurity solutions
<https://www.proofpoint.com/uk>
**Royal Air Force**
Aerial warfare force
<https://www.raf.mod.uk>
**Ryobi Ltd**
Manufacturer of components for automobiles, electronics, and telecommunications industries.
<https://www.ryobi-group.co.jp/en/>
**Signifyd**
Industry leader in fraud prevention
> [Homepage – DC360 Promo – November 2023](https://www.signifyd.com/)
**SONI**
The electricity system operator for Northern Ireland
<http://www.soni.ltd.uk>
**SpotX**
Video advertising platform
<https://www.spotx.tv>
**Susquehanna**
Trading and technology firm
<https://sig.com>
**Synopsys**
Electronic design automation company
<https://www.synopsys.com>
**Teach First**
A charity that develops and supports teachers and leaders
<https://www.teachfirst.org.uk>
**Telestack Limited**
Bulk material handling solutions
<https://www.telestack.com>
**Tracey Concrete**
One of the largest precast concrete manufacturers
https://www.traceyconcrete.com/site/
- Tags
[graduate internships](https://blogs.qub.ac.uk/careers/tag/graduate-internships/), [graduate jobs](https://blogs.qub.ac.uk/careers/tag/graduate-jobs/), [graduate placements](https://blogs.qub.ac.uk/careers/tag/graduate-placements/), [graduate recruitment and placement fair](https://blogs.qub.ac.uk/careers/tag/graduate-recruitment-and-placement-fair/)
At the [Graduate Recruitment and Placement Fair on Oct 21 and 22](https://www.qub.ac.uk/directorates/sgc/careers/virtual-recruitment-fair/), employers will use your online profile to find you. How do you build a profile that stands out from the crowd? Read on and find out.
You can upload your CV to your profile, so that will let an employer know *what* you’ve done. The key is to articulate what you have learned and the skills you have collected along the way. Employers want to know what skills and experience you can bring to the role. Below you will find a list of top skills employers told us they are looking for in student and graduate recruits, along with a brief explainer. Tag as many of these as you can to your online profile ahead of the event.
**Cognitive/intellectual skills, such as:**
- Problem solving:Ability to analyse issues, identify barriers and offer/implement potential solutions. This may involve prioritising tasks, coping with complexity, setting achievable goals and taking action. It may also involve innovation at relevant points.
(Other terms might include – Thinking creatively/Decision making)
- Applying subject knowledge and understanding: potentially from the degree pathway.
(This might also include researching the types of industry/roles that the subject knowledge could lead to and mechanisms for doing this.)
**Professional attributes/attitudes such as:**
- Communication skills: the ability to communicate effectively in a range of professional contexts (both orally and in writing).
(Could also include body language, presentation skills, listening skills, communication styles)
- Teamwork: the ability to work with others in a team, to communicate, influence, negotiate, demonstrating adaptability/flexibility, creativity, initiative, leadership and decision-making.
(Might include knowledge of their teamworking style, types of teams, working with remote teams, leading teams, running meetings)
- Interpersonal skills:includes ability to engage with and motivate others, sensitivity, global and cultural awareness, moral and ethical awareness and the ability to adjust behaviour accordingly.
(Other terms might include – Emotional intelligence, self-awareness, building on strengths, self-management)
- Leadership skills: leading other individuals or groups through a set of complex decisions as part of goal achievement within projects or significant and challenging activities.
(Leadership styles, leadership theories, performance, motivation)
**Technical skills such as:**
- Utilise modern technology:associated with work place or work-related activity.
- Information technology skills: includes ability to learn, apply and exploit relevant IT programmes.
**Business and organisational skills such as:**
- Business operational skills/ Commercial awareness: understanding of relevant commercial, marketing, management and/or financial processes/principles. Awareness of differences in organisational cultures and practices.
- Business communication skills: Written, verbal and/or online.
(Could also include – Business etiquette, coaching, collaboration, influencing others)
**Language Skills and Cultural Awareness**
- Proficiency in foreign languages: developed through courses or overseas experiences.
- Cultural awareness/intelligence: and the ability to implement this in a variety of multicultural contexts.
If you haven’t registered for the Graduate Recruitment and Placement Fair yet, make sure you do it today. Use your QUB email to enjoy uninterrupted access to our virtual platforms and register for both days so you can experience everything on offer.
[Register now](https://www.qub.ac.uk/directorates/sgc/careers/virtual-recruitment-fair/)
- Tags
[CVs](https://blogs.qub.ac.uk/careers/tag/cvs/), [employers](https://blogs.qub.ac.uk/careers/tag/employers/), [graduate jobs](https://blogs.qub.ac.uk/careers/tag/graduate-jobs/), [graduate placements](https://blogs.qub.ac.uk/careers/tag/graduate-placements/), [graduate recruitment and placement fair](https://blogs.qub.ac.uk/careers/tag/graduate-recruitment-and-placement-fair/), [graduate success](https://blogs.qub.ac.uk/careers/tag/graduate-success/), [graduate training schemes](https://blogs.qub.ac.uk/careers/tag/graduate-training-schemes/), [Online profile](https://blogs.qub.ac.uk/careers/tag/online-profile/)
**FORGET PALM PRESSING AND SWAPPING BUSINESS CARDS, NETWORKING IN THE REMOTE WORKING ERA IS AS EASY AS ONE, TWO, TWEET**
As a university student, you’ve probably been advised to start building your professional network while you are still at university – but what does that mean and where do you start?
Sandra Scannell Head of the Employer Engagement Team at Queen’s explains: “A great degree can get you far, but the network and connections you build at university can help you get there faster. While the old adage ‘it’s not what you know, it’s who you know’ is not entirely accurate – a brilliant academic qualification makes you more likely to get a job than a non-graduate (89 per cent compared to 72 per cent, according to the Department for Education) – networking remains an essential part of the graduate job hunt. According to recent statistics from LinkedIn, as much 85 per cent of jobs are filled via networking. No matter what way you cut it, it’s important to know people.”
**Networking without the stress**
Traditionally, networking on campus might have meant completing a circuit of the Whitla Hall at the annual Graduate Recruitment and Placement Fair, collecting handshakes, business cards and solid job leads. All very well if you are the confident type; slightly awkward and stressful if you are not. This year, however, the event is being hosted virtually – levelly the playing field.
“The virtual platform dispenses with a lot of the embarrassment and stress that comes as part of a traditional networking environment– especially if you are more introverted or less confident,” says Sandra. “You can ask questions directly to recruiters and companies via live chat instead of navigating the throngs to speak to a busy recruiter, who is already being bombarded with questions. You can hone your ‘elevator pitch’ into a succinct 100-word introduction on an online profile, giving you a stronger chance to get noticed. A few simple clicks and you can add you CV and the URL to your LinkedIn profile. Names and key details are displayed on screen – meaning awkward introductions are also dispensed off.”
**As easy as Instagram**
The good news is, if you’ve ever used Facebook, Twitter or Instagram, you know how to network online. “The Instagram generation are more than capable of flexing to new ways of working and are very comfortable networking in the digital realm,” says Sandra. “Facebook was launched in 2004, meaning students enrolling in 2022 will be the first generation of university students for who social networking has always existed. You have the tools to build an online brand: whether its chronicling your life on your Instagram grid or presenting a professional profile picture, you are more than ready to network from your laptop.”
**The golden rules**
While modern day networking is as easy as clicking a button, some golden rules still apply, of course. “Preparation is key,” says Sandra. “Doing your research on a company and making sure your CV is tailored to the job you want, for starters. Our Careers Consultants are still on-hand to walk you through the recruitment and application process. But, rest assured, you already have a lot of digital tools in your armour – and you know how to use them.”
She adds: “Professional networking sites like LinkedIn allow you to sell your personal brand with key words and phrases relating to your target industry, well-written profiles and a strong professional headline. You can join LinkedIn professional groups, participate in conversations and pick up industry intel. Twitter allows graduate jobseekers and recruiters to connect through hashtags like #hiring #recruiting and #gradjobs. You can follow potential employers, Tweet organisations and ask about graduate opportunities… The online networking opportunities for students are endless.”
Ready to start networking?
Register here for our [Graduate Recruitment and Placement Fair](https://virtualcareersfairs.qub.ac.uk/events) on 21 and 22 October
- Tags
[employers](https://blogs.qub.ac.uk/careers/tag/employers/), [graduate internships](https://blogs.qub.ac.uk/careers/tag/graduate-internships/), [graduate jobs](https://blogs.qub.ac.uk/careers/tag/graduate-jobs/), [graduate placements](https://blogs.qub.ac.uk/careers/tag/graduate-placements/), [graduate recruitment and placement fair](https://blogs.qub.ac.uk/careers/tag/graduate-recruitment-and-placement-fair/), [networking](https://blogs.qub.ac.uk/careers/tag/networking/)