1. Choose your speaker wisely.
Before you put your biggest name in front of the students ask yourself if this person is persuasive, funny, engaging, and confident - and plan his or her involvement accordingly. Although students like to see senior management get involved in recruiting (it demonstrates the organization's commitment) the content and delivery of the speaker are even more important to their evaluation of the event. It's better to have the students laughing and paying attention than having them falling asleep in their chairs. The best speakers are described as:
- Honest, but not brutally so.
- Energetic and passionate.
- Cordial and polite but not formal.
- Share characteristics with the students.
2. Encourage Networking
Make sure you allow ample time for students to interact with your representatives. Most students attend the info session having already conducted basic research about your company. They see the info session as an opportunity to answer intangible questions about fit - 'Do I like the employees?' 'Would I fit in?' 'What does it really take to get an offer?' They get answers to these questions through their interactions with your representatives - and they especially like informal breakout sessions. MBAs in particular see the information session as a way to make connections with company representatives. A few other tips to maximize networking are:
- Dedicate substantial time for networking - this really should be an equal or bigger focus than the initial presentation.
- Make sure to bring enough company reps to allow ample small-group and individual interactions - ideally aim for a ratio of 1:5 or better.
- Bring people from all levels and areas of the company and clearly identify their affiliations. At a minimum make sure that representatives can answer questions about areas other than their own.
- Bring reps that actually want to be there. Nothing is more damaging to your company's reputation than an arrogant or surly employee.
3. Don't forget the logistics
Make sure that all the expense and effort you've put into an event aren't overshadowed by sloppy execution. Candidates rarely notice the details of a well-run event - but they sure complain when things don't go well. In their minds poorly managed logistics communicate sloppiness at the organization and a lack of interest in recruiting. Tips for making an event better include:
- Make sure you've chosen a space that will accommodate everyone. If the school doesn't have a venue big enough consider taking the session off-campus.
- Avoid venues that don't allow for networking or Q&A. Classrooms are not ideal.
- Start and end on time.
- Food and goodies work…and students compare notes.
To learn more about Recruitment Marketing Strategies or to purchase WetFeet's Recruitment Marketing Strategies, click here or call us at 415-284-7900.
To purchase your copy, please order online (see right column), download our order form, call us at (866) 4-WETFEET, or request more information.
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Recruitment Marketing Strategies Report
Price: $2,500.00
ISBN Number: 1-58207-462-3
Published: 2004
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