Employer information sessions are invaluable opportunities for students at all stages of their academic journey. Whether you’re a freshman just beginning to explore career paths, a sophomore or junior seeking internships, or a senior or graduate student preparing to enter the workforce, these events offer unique insights and opportunities that can shape your professional future.
Even if a company isn’t directly hiring for your dream role, we still recommend attending as the knowledge and connections you gain can still be beneficial! And keep in mind — nine out of ten events will have Freeman alumni in attendance and these alumni have served as an incredible network of support for past students navigating the recruitment process.
So, whether you’re certain about your career path or still exploring your options, be sure to take advantage of employer info sessions to broaden your horizons and take proactive steps towards your future career.
Now, let’s address some common questions you might have about these events…
Why Should I Attend? / What Can I Learn?
There are many reasons to attend information sessions and employer events:
- Learn about the company, its values, and recruitment timelines.
- Meet recruiters and alumni—making connections can be very beneficial.
- Practice your networking skills.
- Learn about early recruitment programs for freshmen and sophomores.
- Discover different positions and teams within the company.
- Connect with fellow students.
- Learn about student organizations that co-host events.
What to Wear?
It’s always better to be slightly overdressed than underdressed. Business professional (full suit) is great, but business casual (pants and a polo or blouse) is also fine. Remember, this is your first chance to make a good impression, don’t miss it! However, if it’s a choice between not coming at all and showing up in jeans and a tee, it’s always better to attend.
What to Bring?
We suggest bringing a pen and paper or your computer to take notes. Do your research beforehand and come with some prepared questions. Having your resume on hand is also a good idea, but don’t be pushy about handing it to the speakers.
An effective strategy is to stay after the session to engage in 1:1 conversations with the speakers. Express your specific interest in the [company/team/division/office] and mention your current application status. Then you might state “I have a copy of my resume with me today and would love to leave it with you.” However, regardless of the immediate outcome, you should follow up via email after the event with your resume attached.
How Do I Make the Most of These Events?
- Ask questions.
- Have your elevator pitch ready.
- Bring your resume (but don’t force it on anyone).
- Take notes.
- Work with the CMC to perfect your elevator pitch.
- Get there early or stay at the end to network with the speakers.
- When introducing yourself, have a firm handshake and make eye contact.
- Ask them questions and get their email addresses or LinkedIn profiles.
How Should I Follow Up?
Feel free to connect on LinkedIn with anyone you’ve met. Make sure to note something specific you learned or appreciated. If you need more guidance on finding or connecting with alumni on LinkedIn, make an appointment with your Career Consultant, they would be happy to help!
If they don’t accept your LinkedIn connection request after a few days, look them up on CareerShift and send them an email. Do this too if they don’t respond to your follow-up LinkedIn message–many people don’t often check their LinkedIn, so your message might get lost. In general, an email is the most effective way to reach out.
How Early Should I Arrive?
We suggest arriving 15 minutes early to get some one-on-one time with the employer representatives before others arrive.
What if I’m Late?
While its not ideal, don’t let being late stop you from attending. Sneak in quietly at the back, and if you get a chance to chat with them at the end, apologize for your tardiness. Don’t forget to scan in with the CMC to ensure the employer gets your resume.
What Can I Do to Prepare?
- Research the employer in advance.
- Look up who’s attending, and research them on Linkedin
- Prepare a list of questions, perhaps see if the employer has been in the news recently, you could ask about that.
- Plan what to wear in order to make a good impression.
What Not to Do
- Never directly ask how much money the speakers make or how much the job/internship pays unless they bring it up first. These types of questions are generally frowned upon. You can use websites like Glassdoor or Wall Street Oasis to see reported salaries for the position you are applying for.
- Never directly ask for an internship or a job on the spot. Instead, follow up with the speakers after the session. (See How Should I Follow Up?)
- Don’t dominate the Q&A at the end of the session. If you have already asked a question and you see that other students still have questions, let them speak. Feel free to ask more questions if others’ questions have been answered and there is still time. You are also encouraged to stay at the end to network with the speakers and ask them more questions.
- Don’t ignore the QR code for check-in! Some companies track attendance and may request the resumes of students who attended the session.
- Don’t ask “What does your company do?” or other questions that you can easily Google. You can make a bad first impression if you don’t show that you have done some research prior to the company’s visit.
- Don’t use your phone during the session unless it is necessary. Doing this can make you look disrespectful toward the speakers. It is preferable to take notes on a piece of paper/notebook/laptop.
- Don’t leave the session early unless it is necessary. Doing this can make a bad first impression.
- If you arrive early to the session or stay at the end to have 1:1 conversations with the speakers, don’t interrupt other people’s 1:1s. Wait patiently for them to finish talking, then introduce yourself. Be mindful of others’ time and keep 1:1s short so everyone has a chance to talk. If you see a circle of students already talking to a speaker, wait for whoever is currently speaking to finish and then introduce yourself.
What About Virtual Information Sessions?
Treat virtual information sessions with the same thoughtfulness and care that you would for an in-person session. Dress professionally, turn on your camera, and mute your microphone. Try to have a neat background. Alternatively, you are welcome to use a Tulane-branded virtual background. A collection of approved images for the University and the Freeman School can be found here.
How Can I Find Out About Other Similar Events?
- Sign up for our events email.
- Keep an eye on Handshake.
- Check out our calendar.
- Meet with your Career Consultant.
What If I Need Accommodations?
Email careers@tulane.edu in advance of the event.
Still got questions? Reach out to your Career Consultant, or careers@tulane.edu
