The value of face-to-face networking

In the age of digital communications and the global job search, it is more important than ever to establish a personal connection. Investing in face-time can actually have a lasting professional impact and for students preparing to enter the job market, taking the time to develop meaningful professional relationships is still the best strategy to getting a job.

While not every conversation with an employer will lead to a job, it could offer helpful insight about the hidden job market, critical career skills, or a future job interview. The value of face-to-face has not been lost on recruiters seeking to fill opportunities within their organizations. This year’s Fall Career Fair, which is taking place on Thursday, September 22 from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. at the David Braley Athletic Centre sold out early, with 112 organizations choosing to invest in face-time.

“We know that students go to university to get a good job and start a career,” says Gisela Oliveira, manager of career and employment at McMaster University’s Student Success Centre, “The Fall Career Fair is the best opportunity to do just that: explore, learn, ask questions and network. This year’s list of participating organizations ranges from big to small-sized organizations and welcomes some brand new companies, including General Motors, Hamilton Health Sciences and Bastian Solutions. We are also thrilled to see many Hamilton start-ups attending this year’s Fair and looking to grow their business with McMaster talent.”

For students looking to build their career connections, gain experience and develop employable skills, the Student Success Centre and the Faculty career offices offer many year-round programs and services that expose students to a diverse range of job opportunities and pathways. Programs, including Final-Year Recruitment, help students gain confidence in career decision making and support a smooth transition into the workforce.

This fall, over 30 organizations will host Company Information Sessions or participate in a Coffee Chat at the University. These sessions are also an opportunity for students to engage in a one-on-one career conversation with a recruiter. Whether a student is actively seeking employment or engaged in early career exploration, attending a career event will establish a foundation for career success and create a personal connection with an employer.

“These employers seek out McMaster students. We are very excited to continue working with our employer partners to develop opportunities that will help students explore different career options and lead them towards a successful career transition,” says Oliveira. “We are also thankful to the organizations that continue to support the Final-Year Recruitment Program year-after-year including, ArcelorMittal Dofasco, Tata Consultancy Services, and Athena Automation.”

Companies hosting Information Sessions and Coffee Chats at McMaster can be found on OSCARplus. Additional details about the Fall Career Fair and how best to prepare can be found on the Student Success Centre website: studentsuccess.mcmaster.ca.

The Fall Career Fair is a partnership with the Student Success Centre, Engineering Co-op and Career Services, Experiential Education – Faculty of Social Sciences, Science Career and Cooperative Education, and Student Experience – Career and Professional Development.