COMPETITION has never been higher in the UK’s diverse and dynamic graduate jobs market.

It’s a sign for some that in-demand knowledge and relevant qualification is a core target for employers with sustainability, growth and innovation agendas, accessed and optimised through the quality of their human resources.

How to get on board? It follows that graduate jobs fairs have never had more currency for each party.

The annual University of Strathclyde-organised Scottish Graduate Fair underlines the strength of the proposition.

The Herald:

Katy Gordon, Careers Service and Employability Manager at the University of Strathclyde, offers hard data in support of the theory: “4,169 students and graduates attended last year - it is usually 3,800 to over 4,000 - and there are usually about 100 exhibitors,” she states.

Open over two days in October at Glasgow’s SECC, this completely free to enter event – the biggest in Scotland - attracts some of the great and good of regional, cross-Britain and international industry and commerce.

Attendees might want to take the “elevator test”: can you sell yourself effectively to a recruiter in the time it would take to get in a lift with them and travel to, say, the 5th floor of building.  Succinct, yet purposeful.

Make notes after meetings, to capture details before they’re forgotten. Taking updated, well-presented CVs to your target stands can work; it’s an easy way for exhibitors to record visitors of interest.

Lastly, exhibitors know students are coming straight from class so there is no expectation of overtly smart dress – but, Gordon underlines, appropriate personal grooming remains an obvious plus.

SECC: 2pm – 7pm on Wed 12th October, and 11am – 4pm on Thurs 13th October

For the full, free Herald guide to the big event, click here