Our busiest part-time jobs fair ever

Posted on: 30 October 2024 by Alice Brett-Dunning in Employer Connections Blog

This year’s Part Time Jobs Fair was a resounding success, with over 30 employers and 2,300 students in attendance.

For the Employer Connections Team, semester one is a notoriously hectic yet rewarding period. A peak season for student and graduate recruitment, it is crucial that we deliver experiences that maximise employer exposure and enhance student employability, ensuring talent meets opportunity. There are two autumn touchpoints central to this objective: the Part Time Job’s Fair and InspiredFutures.

This year’s Part Time Jobs Fair was a resounding success, with over 30 employers and 2,300 students in attendance. Held in Mountford Hall on Wednesday 25 September, students began queueing 45 minutes before the event in anticipation of the part-time opportunities that awaited them. Such a turnout certainly reflects the current financial climate, with more than 9 in 10 student survey respondents reporting that their cost of living had risen in comparison with the previous year.

[1] We recognise the importance of such an event to students, many of whom rely on a part-time income to supplement these rising costs. Aside from this, the uptake of part-time employment alongside their studies equips students with key transferable skills, which are invaluable in this ever-competitive graduate landscape. The development of a strong work ethic and ability to effectively manage time and workload goes far to boost one’s CV and set them apart when applying for placements and graduate roles.

With a range of sectors represented – including hospitality, teaching, social care, and charity work – opportunities for students were plentiful. However, the format of this year’s Part Time Jobs Fair presented many benefits for employers also. The immediate and direct nature of student-employer interactions allowed for on-the-spot recruitment and targeted networking with a relevant and motivated applicant pool actively seeking part-time work. Additionally, it offered an excellent opportunity to increase brand visibility and raise company profile, to the advantage of research and charity employers especially.

Just across from the Guild’s main entrance stands our brand-new Career Studio, the perfect stop-off for those wanting to refine their CV with the help of our dedicated Career Coaches in preparation for applications following the fair.

Representatives of FGH Security reported that the fair ‘exceeded [their] expectations’, having received 112 applications for their advertised role, a testament to the enthusiasm and dedication of our students.

Additionally, all respondents to our Employer Feedback survey agreed that our students were well prepared, high-calibre, and from a diverse range of backgrounds. As we continue to support our students on their career journeys, we invite employers to engage with us further and take advantage of the exceptional talent they offer.

[1] Student Cost of Living Insights Study (England, February 2023).