Let’s be honest: you can show up to the Diversity Expo without doing a single shred of research, and you will be fine. If you want to maximize the opportunity to make meaningful connections with prospective employers, however, it will serve you well to do some pre-event digging. The goal: learn at least one unique fact about the firms or organizations you are most interested in connecting with. The reason is simple: the more prepared you are, the easier it is to engage.
Here are some tips to help you prepare:
- Look at the “About Us” page on their website. You will get a good sense of the way the firm/org distinguishes itself, along with its core values. Is there something there you relate to, or that you are curious about?
- Look at the “Clients” – is there someone here that resonates?
- Check out the “In the News” section. Has there been recent coverage of something significant? This can be a great conversation starter.
- Read about their Diversity program. What questions do you have?
- Learn about specific programs or initiatives unique to the firm or organization. What inspires you, and what else do you want to know?
- Does the firm/organization website talk about mentorship? How does this work?
Your questions do not need to be limited to diversity topics. You can ask about practice areas, the firm/org in general, what the person likes about their job, and more. The more you know about the specific employers in advance, the more prepared you are to have a meaningful, memorable conversation.
Join me on Thursday, November 9th from 12-1 for MORE tips on How to Maximize the Expo.