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Attending Company Presentations/Information Sessions

Every year, the Career Services & Internship Program Office invites our employer partners to conduct corporate presentations on campus and virtual via Handshake. These presentations are a great way for students to learn more about an organization and its opportunities, as well as network with BSU alumni and industry professionals. Corporation Presentations are posted on Handshake, however, student organizations and academic departments may also host these sessions, so be sure to read department and visit Handshake under the Events tab to stay informed.

Why should I go to corporate presentations?

  • Attending a corporate presentation will allow you to:
  • Assess the company and its culture
  • Gain insight into various career paths
  • Learn about available positions and qualities each company looks for in candidates
  • Connect with BSU alumni and industry professionals

All of these experiences complement the information available on the company website and in the job posting. It is also a great opportunity for you to make a personal connection within a company. These actions ensure that you are informed and can speak thoughtfully about the organization in your cover letters and interviews.

What should I expect?
Most corporate presentations range from one to two hours and consist of a company presentation where current employees explain the values and mission of the company, recent projects, company culture and their hiring process; followed by a Q&A and an opportunity for students to network with recruiters or BSU alumni working at the company.

How should I prepare?
You will maximize your experience if you do some background research on the company, the job opportunities they’ve posted on Handshake, as well as positions listed on their career pages. Gather information regarding industry trends and be aware of the company’s competitors. It is also a good idea to bring copies of your resume in case they are being collected at the event. If it is a virtual event, company will usually provide you with information regarding available opportunities and how to apply online.

What should I do while I’m there?
Arrive on time and pay attention to the presentation. Take notes so you can use the information to enhance your application materials. Don’t be afraid to ask questions about the company, recruitment and interview process, but avoid posing questions that could be easily answered through research on the company website. It is also not appropriate to talk on the phone or text during the presentation. During the Q&A and the networking portion, be respectful of the employer’s time and do not dominate the conversation if there are other students around.

If it is a virtual session, try to keep your camera on. Be active on chat or during Q&A. Ask questions and follow up after the event.

What do I wear?
Business professional (suit) is typically recommended unless otherwise specified in the calendar listing. Some organizations do not require business attire and they will typically indicate such information in their event description.

Watch out for your background for virtual sessions and avoid any noisy areas. Dress appropriately and present yourself professionally.

I have a scheduling conflict and can only stay for part of the session–can I still attend?
Recruiters are aware of students’ hectic schedules. If you arrive on time, but have to leave early, it is proper etiquette to speak to the recruiter/presenter beforehand to let them know. If you arrive late, connect with them afterward and explain that you had a conflict prior to the start of the event.

Will the company representatives remember me? Should I follow up?
Company representatives will remember you if you make a good impression and participate in other on-campus networking opportunities. It is important to collect business cards or contact information for follow up. A short email or LinkedIn message is always appropriate, just to say that you enjoyed meeting them and that you learned a lot at the information session. Be sure to reference something specific you learned from the session or through the conversation. If you connected particularly well with someone at the event and would like to speak to him/her further, it might be appropriate to request an informational interview.