by Magdalena Wong, Employability and Careers Manager at 51吃瓜网听
To make the most of the upcoming Careers and Volunteer Expo, we encourage you to approach the event with a dual mindset. Whether you are seeking a graduate role with a multinational firm or a meaningful volunteer position with a non-profit, the organisation representatives at the stalls are looking for the same thing: engagement, preparation, and purpose.听
Here is how to equip yourself for the expo and leave听a lasting impression听on both industry and community partners.听
1. Research your targets听
Do not walk into the expo blind. Review the list of attending organisations on the UQ Careers and Employability website beforehand.听Identify听at least five "must-visit"听organisations. Understanding an organisation鈥檚听recent projects or a charity鈥檚 specific mission allows you to move past basic questions and engage in high-level conversation.听
2. Tailor your elevator pitch听
Prepare a 30-second introduction that summarises your studies, your key skills, and what you are looking for.听
- For Industry: Focus on your technical听proficiency听and career aspirations.听
- For Volunteering: Focus on your values and the specific impact you want to make in the community.听
3.听Demonstrate听genuine interest听
Recruiters can spot a "standard" pitch from a mile away. Show enthusiasm for the specific work they do. If you are talking to a volunteer organisation, mention why their cause resonates with you personally. If it is a corporate firm, mention a recent industry development that interests you听(reading听the听news听daily听will pay off).听
4.听Identify听your unique value听
UQ students are high achievers, so you need to define what makes you distinct. This could be your ability to speak a second language, your experience in student clubs, or a specific technical certification. Clearly articulate how this "extra" makes you an asset to their team or cause.听
5. Practise active listening听
An expo is a dialogue, not a monologue. Listen to what the听organisation representative听emphasises. If they mention they are looking for "collaborators" or "problem solvers," use that as a cue to highlight your relevant experiences. Asking "What does a typical day look like for a volunteer in this role?" shows you are serious about the commitment.听
6.听Maintain听professional standards听
First impressions are formed in seconds. Wear smart-casual attire and听maintain听a professional demeanour. Ensure your body language is open and approachable. If you are asked to scan a QR code or听submit听a digital CV, do so promptly and follow any instructions they provide exactly.听
7. Use evidence-based examples听
Avoid vague claims like "I am a hard worker." Instead, use concrete examples: "I managed a budget of $2,000 for a student society event" or "I have spent six months tutoring high school students." Data and specific outcomes are far more memorable than generalisations.听
8. Follow up with intent听
If you have a meaningful conversation, ask for the representative鈥檚 name or LinkedIn details. Within 24 hours of the expo, send a brief, personalised message. Mention a specific point from your conversation to help them place you. This simple step separates "attendees" from "candidates."听
9. Build a long-term network听
Not every stall will have the perfect role for you today. View the expo as a networking exercise rather than just a job hunt. An organisation representative听you meet at a volunteer stall today might be the same person hiring for a corporate role two years from now. Build the bridge early.听
10. Iterative learning听
Treat your first few stalls as a warm-up. If you notice your pitch听isn't听landing or听you're听getting stumped by a certain question, pivot. Use the feedback and the "vibe" of the room to refine your approach as you move through the event.听
In a competitive environment, your ability to blend professionalism with a clear sense of purpose will set you apart. By showing up prepared, you听demonstrate听that you are not just looking for any opportunity, but the right opportunity where you can add value.听
