The JET Careers Fair was again organised by JLGC this year, taking place on 28 September 2022 (11:00 to 16:30 BST), in collaboration with the Embassy of Japan in the UK and the JET Alumni Association UK.
The event was organised for JET programme alumni looking for information on finding a job after returning to the UK, and how to keep in touch with the JET and Japanese communities, and was a fantastic opportunity to hear from JET alumni working in the UK and hiring managers from various companies.
While principally organised for those JETs who have returned to the UK this year, all alumni were invited to see what alumni have to say about career opportunities and keeping links with Japan, meaning the day was a great opportunity for all those looking for a change of career
The event included panel discussions on using participants’ JET experience to find employment, with high-profile speakers from the public sector and various Japanese companies. Recruiting organisations were in attendance in the virtual exhibition area from a range of areas, such as careers in teaching, travel, international business, local and central government roles and many others. There were also breakout sessions to allow for interactive discussions in small groups on topics such as ‘Postgraduate studies’, ‘Making the most of LinkedIn’, ‘Entrepreneurship & consulting’ and more.
The event also ran a CV Clinic throughout with 1-on-1 appointments with career counsellors offering advice on how to make CVs more attractive to recruiters. There were one-on-one networking opportunities with recruiters and fellow returnees, as well as other JET alumni and their local chapters, and participants said of the event:
“I found it really insightful and motivating, especially after coming back from Japan recently. I feel as if I am ready to move forward with pursuing my next career.”
“I’ve been worried about job hunting recently but I feel a lot better about things now after the advice I received today. Thank you.”
“Very informative. Explored a number of career options that I had not considered previously. Glad I was able to attend.”
The event saw over 200 people register for the day, making it the best attended online careers fair since the move to online three years ago.
JLGC is very grateful for the JET Alumni Association of the UK supporting and contributing to the day, as well as the support given by the Embassy of Japan in the UK, and employers, speakers, panellists, recruiters and all who helped us make the event such a valuable experience for JET alumni.
Videos of the panel discussion and breakout sessions will be posted shortly on the JETAA UK website (registration is needed to view this content).
