The Career Lab: Getting Hired in a Changing World

This is an in-person event on Tuesday 29th of July 2025! 
It’s time to decode the hiring process. In a world of AI-generated cover letters, evolving expectations, and LinkedIn profiles that can make or break your application. How can students and grads stand out from the crowd?
Join us for an insightful evening for The Career Lab, a panel event hosted in partnership between HRNZ Canterbury Branch and 180 Degrees Consulting. Four experienced professionals from the world of recruitment, and early-career development share their honest advice, real-life stories, and tips for landing your first role and progressing beyond it.
This practical session will explore everything from what hiring managers are really looking for in CVs, cover letters, and interviews — to using AI tools responsibly, making your LinkedIn profile work for you, and networking without the awkwardness. Learn what sets candidates apart, the red and green flags you should look out for when job hunting, and how to get confident asking questions around salary, culture, and progression.
 

Event Schedule
● Arrive from 6:00pm for networking and nibbles (panel kicks off at 6:20pm). Drinks available to purchase at the Foundry.
● Panel Presentations: Each speaker will present for 5 minutes on their area of expertise.
● Q&A: We’ll discuss pre-submitted questions surrounding various topics. 
● After the Panel: Enjoy hot food and a chance to connect one-on-one with the speakers.
 

Ticket Info
● HRNZ Members & UC Students: $5 (includes nibbles and professional photography). Please bring proof of ticket at the door. No walk-ins.  See booking instructions below
 

Extras on the Night
● CV Checks with some of the panellists (limited spaces, sign-up on arrival).
● Professional Headshots: One photographer available (limited spaces, first in, first served).
● Hot food served after the panel discussion.
● Cash bar available throughout the evening.
 

Meet the Panel
● Hayley Helm-Begg - Sudima Hotels: CVs, cover letters, AI use and LinkedIn 
● Sam Turner - Syft: Interview realities, phone screenings and interview tests.
● Ketki Acharya - Ryman Healthcare: Networking with impact + Red & Green Flags in Workplace Culture.
● Sahar Jamal - UC Careers: Career Progression: Where to from here?
 

Pricing
HRNZ Student Members: $5.00
UC Student Members: $5.00
Please note our prices include GST.  Payment is due at the time of registration by credit card.  If payment is not received, your registration may be cancelled.
To Register
You must have an Account (Member or Non-Member) and be logged in to register for events. 
Please note: if you are NOT attending the event, you can no longer register on behalf of others. 
For all queries relating to this event email [email protected] 
Cancellations & Refunds
To receive a full refund cancellation must be received by HRNZ by email to [email protected] three working days before the day of the event.
Cancellations after this time and/or 'no shows' on the day will be payable in full.
Appropriate substitutions are welcome - please email [email protected] with their details.