5 ways to make the most of the International Recruitment Forum

Twice a year students across all Swiss Education Group schools attend the International Recruitment Forum, an exclusive opportunity to meet with over 100 international companies looking to recruit interns for positions around the world.

Here are five common beliefs students have about how the IRF works and what you can actually expect from this incredible opportunity.

 

Myth 1: I must know the details of every single company attending the IRF.

You will soon realize that is very difficult to remember and learn about all the companies (there are over 100 each year!). One option is to go to Hosco and try to focus on the ones that grab your attention the most. These are the companies you want to learn by heart and impress the recruiters with your knowledge and preparation! It's also important to plan ahead: if there is a company you love, but you aren't looking for an internship yet or they aren't currently hiring, connect with them now anyways. Follow them on LinkedIn, get to know their website, chat with them at the IRF.

 

Myth 2: I expect to be offered an internship/job position by the end of the day.

Don’t expect to sign a contract by the end of the day. There will be a few companies who might offer a position to some students on the spot, but the majority of the recruiters will take time to review the CVs received and will follow up in a few weeks with offers to the most suitable candidates.

 

Myth 3: I need to leave my CV with every single company to have a higher chance of getting an internship or job.

Rather than simply handing over your CV, take the time to visit as many booths as you can and to introduce yourself to the recruiters. This will allow you to practice your professional skills but also help you to start building a professional network for your future career. Talk to as many recruiters as you can!

 

Myth 4: The recruiters won’t be interested in me because I am only a first-year student and I don’t have any work experience.

Even though you might not have as much experience in the workplace as your classmates, no need to worry! The recruiters KNOW it is your first time at the IRF. What they expect from you though is to show passion and motivation when you are talking to them. The IRF is a unique opportunity for you to showcase your great personality and why a company should choose YOU over someone else. Many recruiters are looking for talented candidates who are flexible, open-minded ,and interested in working in a multicultural environment. They highly appreciate when a student approaches them with questions or when they are knowledgeable about the company.

 

Myth 5: Once I am finished with my interviews and have visited all the booths there is nothing left for me to do at the IRF.

Not true at all! Throughout the day, you have the chance to see different presentations about featured companies, listen to inspiring keynote speakers sharing their career stories as well as interactive round tables focusing on current topics within the hospitality industry. I highly recommend you participate in all of the above activities in order to learn more and demonstrate your enthusiasm.