FORUM Strong: 5 Tips

teo men interview a female candidate in a busy room

1. Log into the conference module…a lot.

The conference module is your best friend. Through it, you can view your schedule, mark yourself “unavailable” for times you know you won’t be present (and avoid the headache of potentially canceling on a school that has scheduled an interview with you), and send messages to schools of interest. Schools schedule interviews right up until (and even during!) the event, so make sure you’re checking it frequently.

2. Make a shortlist of schools you’d like to meet.

Through the module, you’ll be able to review a list of all schools attending the conference. Cross-reference this list with any referrals you’ve received. Identify schools whose missions and programs appeal to you, regardless of whether you know of an opening in your department. Make a shortlist of schools that are most attractive to you. Send them messages through the conference module, be on the lookout for them at “mingling” times, and consider (politely and unobtrusively) dropping off your resume at their table.

3. Prep for what’s expected – and what’s not.

The interviews you have at these events are real interviews and should be prepped for accordingly. If a school schedules an interview with you, spend time before your meeting getting to know the school. Peruse its website, understand its mission, and come equipped with some ideas for how your skills and personality would fit into its culture.

Also prepare for what’s not expected. Understand that schools may schedule interviews with you on the day of the event. Look over your shortlist of schools and conduct research on them, too, in case one schedules a last-minute interview. Bring a laptop or tablet so you can do any necessary research on-site. And come prepared with extra copies of your resume and any supporting materials, just in case.

4. Take advantage of downtime.

Take advantage of downtime between interviews to prepare for what’s next and connect with your placement team. We want to get to know you and hear how your day is going – find us and keep us updated! (We’ll be the ones in the teal vests.)

5. Check out professional development sessions.

Each of our events has an element of professional development embedded within it. FORUM/Diversity is particularly appealing for professional development-seekers, with two inspiring keynote addresses, six panel discussions, and a town hall discussion concluding the event. Make sure you check out the agenda and plan accordingly – this is an invaluable opportunity to learn from industry leaders.

Our other events feature fewer panels, but they’re just as helpful. Try to work these sessions into your day, if your schedule allows.

We’re looking forward to seeing you at FORUM/Diversity and at our hiring events throughout the winter!

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The Puzzle: Blog

01/28/2016 by Carney Sandoe Staff | Conferences