How to Prepare for An Open Day

Open days are a valuable tool for talent outreach. It’s a great chance to see inside an organisation and talk to people, but don’t forget that, despite the informal tone, it’s also a time for a potential employer to see and assess you.

You may think open days are something your kids go on, but nowadays they are a valuable tool for talent outreach. It’s a great chance to see inside an organisation and talk to people, but don’t forget that, despite the informal tone, it’s also a time for a potential employer to see and assess you.

So here are some tips on how to prepare.

Do You Really Want To Work For This Company?

Make sure this is a company you might want to work for. Do your research as organisers will not be impressed if you leave halfway through when you realise it’s not for you. Doing your research also means your questions will be more informed and you will be able to make an early impact.

Be On Time

Check you know the location and be punctual. It may not be an interview situation, but lateness may be remembered.

Look The Part

Dress appropriately. This is not a time for jeans and a t-shirt. You don’t have to dress up too much, but make sure to look business-like and wear appropriate clothes for the setting so you don’t stand out in a bad way.

Update Your LinkedIn

Get your LinkedIn profile up to date so that when you meet people at the event you can share contact details and network. Make sure you have relevant information on there - in the profile and elsewhere - that shows that you have the skills the employer might be looking for. Ensure any links off and photos are current. Fill in all sections and interact online to show you are engaged. Posting regularly, even if only comments on news from your sector, also demonstrates you are serious about your job search and have ideas and expertise to offer.

Plan Ahead

The employer should send you a schedule in advance of the open day so you can plan who you will see and any questions you might like to ask.

Enjoy It!

Enjoy the experience. Remember it’s not just them looking at you. It gives you a chance to ask questions about the roles on offer, soak up the culture and get an insight into the organisation to see if you can see yourself working there.