7 ways to prepare for the expo

1 Research, research, research

As with any educational or careers event, all attendees should fully research the event before going. This will involve checking times of speakers and events, reviewing the list of stands, viewing the websites of attendees and deciding who you would like to speak to and what you might like to ask. Know the scope of apprenticeships on offer across the country (see list opposite). It is important to come with a list of prepared questions as well as somewhere to record answers. It will be a busy day and it is easy to forget the details.

2 Explore

Take some time to explore the event. Research and planning is important, but it can be complemented by being open to engaging with speakers, stands and events in which you did not know you would be interested. Ireland Skills Live is all about being open to new ideas. Bring a backpack to carry any promotional material and information you might pick up.

3 Try a skill

Get stuck in and leave yourself time to try out a skill in the try a skills section. This is especially important if you have not been involved in practical subjects or skills-based work before.

4 Check out the competition

Ireland Skills Live will host the national skills finals where visitors will have a unique opportunity to view the work of the country’s most talented apprentices in more than 20 skills.

5 Find an employer

Ireland Skills Live is an opportunity to meet potential employers as well as find out general information on earn-andlearn opportunities. Young people should be conscious of this, as finding an employer is often the most challenging part of becoming an apprentice. Here, under one roof, there will be a large number of employers seeking to hire.

6 Bring along a CV...

… and cover letter which are oriented toward your chosen area of interest. Be prepared to ask and answer questions and complete mini interviews if you are given the opportunity.

7 Look the part

As always when job seeking, presentation is key — so be aware of this when attending. Dress in smart and neat attire or in a tidy school uniform.