PROGRAMS & CENTRES
A DAY IN THE LIMELIGHT
EDWARDS CAREER SERVICES HALLWAY VISITS CONNECT BUSINESSES WITH STUDENTS IN ADDITION TO career fairs, Edwards Career Services offers local employers a direct link to Edwards students: hallway visits. Two days per week, the landing area on the main floor is available for employers to promote opportunities for students. “Often businesses will use the time to advertise a specific job opportunity,” says Career Development Manager Maryann Ross. “Or to raise awareness of the company. It’s like having a mini career fair where you’re the sole exhibitor.” Mondelez Canada Inc. approached Edwards Career Services last year to promote an opportunity. They went on to hold a very successful hallway visit, ending up hiring not one, but two Edwards students. “We’re very excited about our two new hires Adam Schwinghamer and Cole Grove,” says Larry Knauff, field sales manager at Mondelez. “They’ve been exceeding my expectations since they’ve been on board. They are a pleasure to coach and have been well prepared by the Edwards School of Business program.” Larry and Key Account Manager David Ferrari did several things right during their visit, Maryann explains. Here are some tips for other companies new to hallway visits:
Post the job to raise awareness.
In addition to sending out notifications through their weekly newsletter, Edwards Career Services facilitates posting jobs on the U of S job board careerlink.usask.ca. It’s a great idea to mention your hallway visit in the job posting.
Set up early and stay all day.
Make the most of your time, and be sure to catch students during every class change of the day.
Be visually appealing.
Draw attention to your table with coffee, your company’s products, swag, or even balloons!
Engage students.
Hallway visits are informal, so a casual conversation starter is usually best to start engaging students. “Don’t wait for students to come to you, but also don’t be aggressive,” Maryann says. “It’s a balance.”
Edwards hosts hallway visits throughout the school year, starting in August. Companies are able to book a time once per term. For more information on hallway visits, contact Maryann Ross at careers@edwards.usask.ca or (306) 966-2586.
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