How to Prepare for a Virtual Career Fair
Participating in a virtual career fair is an effective way to find and network with prospective employers, especially during the pandemic. Before you jump in, however, there are a few things you should do to prepare. Here are a few tips:
Research
- Research participating employers – You should dedicate some time to researching the employers who have registered to participate in the virtual career fair. Make sure you understand the type of industry they are in, the kind of products or services they offer, and the jobs they are hiring for so that you can tailor your conversations.
- Learn about the career fair platform – Before the event, be sure to familiarize yourself with the career fair platform. Understand how employers and candidates can connect and engage with each other. You should also practice using the platform to ensure that you know how to use the different features available.
Branding and Marketing
- Create a professional profile – Most virtual career fairs have a platform that allows employers and candidates to create profiles. Make sure to use the profile section to highlight your skills, experience and education. You should also use the profile section to showcase your professional online presence, such as your website and social media accounts.
- Prepare an elevator pitch – An elevator pitch is a short description of yourself and your skills. It should include your skills and experience as well as your career goals. This is your opportunity to quickly capture the employer’s interest and get them to connect with you.
Networking and Engagement
- Engage with employers – Most virtual career fairs will have different options for visiting employers’ booths. Take advantage of the opportunity by engaging with employers in a professional manner. Don’t be shy about speaking with recruiters and asking questions. This will help you find out more about the employers and their hiring needs.
- Follow up with employers – Your job does not end after the virtual career fair. Once the event is over, make sure to follow up with employers that you have connected with. This could be done through an email or even a phone call. Following up will show the employer that you are interested in the role and the company, and it might even help you to stand out.
By following these tips, you will be well-prepared for your virtual career fair adventure. Good luck!
