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What Do Students Look for in an Employer? | 2024 Job Fair Recap

Written by Alexander College in About AC on May 31, 2024

We just wrapped up our first Job Fair of the year! We would like to thank students and employers alike for such an amazing turnout.

This year, some new companies such as TD and the Canadian Mental Health Association joined our roster along with AC Job Fair regulars like Cactus Club and Denny’s.

Unlike last year where we interviewed recruiters and representatives to get their advice on how to secure a job, we turned the microphone to our students this time.

Just as employers try to figure out whether or not a potential candidate is a good fit for their company, you should also be asking whether or not a company is a good fit for you. Employment is a two-way street, after all!

Have you been to a Job Fair before?

Of the students we interviewed, about half of them said it was their first job fair. Job fairs are a great opportunity to not only explore the career paths available to you, but also to connect with many potential employers all in one place.

student talking with employer

What do you look for in a company/employer?

When we asked our students what they look for in a company or employer, we received a variety of answers.

“I think I look for diversity. If they’re hiring different people from different backgrounds, that makes a good teamwork environment as well and that gives chance to people from different diversities to take part in that company as well.”

Aside from looking for careers related to their field of study, students also said they looked for employers that shared similar experiences, a suitable work environment, and the opportunity to grow within the company.

”Honestly, I’m looking for their values more than their financial opportunities since I think it’s really important for them to have the right values so they can align with my way to work.”

What can you learn from attending a Job Fair?

We asked students their takeaways from attending a Job Fair, regardless of whether or not it was their first or if they have previously attended another Job Fair, and received a few responses.

For some, Job Fairs taught them the importance of communication skills and the importance of networking. This is especially important if students are nearing the end of their studies at Alexander College and need to consider their next steps.

For others, it taught them that companies are friendly. After all, what are companies if not individuals working together?

employer shaking hands with a student

We hope that this blog gave you a new perspective on finding the right fit for your career aspirations.

If you are unsure about where to begin your career journey, make an appointment with Career Advising. Our Career Advisors are always happy to help with anything career related including resume writing, job search strategies, mock interviews, and more!

Career Advising

If you are a current student, follow us on social media to get notified whenever a career-related event is coming up. We wish you the best of luck on your job search!

Looking to start the application process?

You can apply online, review admissions requirements or request additional information below. Contact us Mon-Fri 9am-5pm PST or email info@alexandercollege.ca Apply Online

Alexander College acknowledges that the land on which we usually gather is the traditional, ancestral and unceded territory of the Coast Salish peoples, including the territories of the xʷməθkwəy̓əm (Musqueam), Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish), and Səl̓ílwətaʔ/Selilwitulh (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations. We are grateful to have the opportunity to work in this territory.

Alexander College acknowledges that the land on which we usually gather is the traditional, ancestral and unceded territory of the Coast Salish peoples, including the territories of the xʷməθkwəy̓əm (Musqueam), Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish), and Səl̓ílwətaʔ/Selilwitulh (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations. We are grateful to have the opportunity to work in this territory.