What do employers say graduates should avoid doing when engaging employers as part of the job search? I asked some business owners to come up with their top tips for a recent student and employer networking event that I facilitated. Here’s what they said:

  1. Don’t directly ask or expect something (i.e. a job) when building the relationship.
  2. Don’t bombard your contacts. Avoid sending them too much mail/asking them too much.
  3. Don’t be put off if you are not sure exactly what you want to do going forward.
  4. Don’t be afraid to approach people and introduce yourself. It makes you stand out and you never know what valuable things may come from it in the future.
  5. Don’t say anything negative about previous roles or your education.
  6. Don’t fail to prepare – spend time to review things prior to any meetings.
  7. Don’t be afraid to ask questions
  8. Don’t underestimate yourself.
  9. Don’t pass up any opportunities to become even better at what you do.
  10. Don’t assume anything.
  11. Don’t make opinions without foundation.
  12. Don’t promise something that you can’t deliver.

Which ones do you need to work on?

Need help about what employers do welcome? Check out 16 Tips For Graduates When Engaging With Employers.