Skip to content
 

9 Ways to Navigate a Virtual Job Fair

  • 10 Tips for Attending a Virtual Career Fair
    Istock

    Your Virtual Job Search

    En español | Online virtual career fairs are a win-win for job seekers and companies. While it’s an inexpensive way for employers to meet potential employees, you can share your résumé with companies that are hiring. You might be able to nab an initial, albeit brief, interview with a recruiter or hiring manager — without having to leave the comfort of home. But this is not a casual browsing event. Take it as seriously as you would an in-person interview. Here's how you can make the most of a virtual job fair.

    1 of 12
  • Pick a Fair Geared to Your Job Search
    Istock

    Choose a Fair Geared to Your Job Search

    Canvas job board websites, LinkedIn, industry groups and membership associations like AARP to find upcoming online career fairs. Some companies also offer their own virtual fairs. Check their websites or social media accounts. See which businesses will have a “booth” with job openings and a recruiter or hiring manager available during the virtual career fair “hours."

    2 of 12
  • Research the virtual career fair and the companies partcipating in advance
    Istock

    Do Your Research

    Review ahead of time the roster of the employers participating and what kinds of jobs are available. Go to company websites, social media pages and also do an online search on the company to find out any recent news. This will help you have a more savvy and energized conversation about why you’re a good fit for the job.

    3 of 12
  • Update your résumé and social media accounts when job searching
    Istock

    Update Your Résumé and Social Media Accounts

    When you register, you’ll probably have to fill out a profile and upload a photo and a basic résumé. Tweak your résumé or even better, create several versions of it to match jobs you want. Don’t forget to proofread them for grammar and spelling errors. Save each résumé on your desktop so you can quickly refer to it and have it ready to email to a recruiter. Be sure to scrub your online profiles of any “unprofessional” posts on Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter.

    4 of 12
  • Get your computer ready before attending a virtual career fair
    Istock

    Get Your Computer Ready

    Generally speaking, a Mac or PC desktop or laptop is fine. After registering, you’ll likely receive a confirmation email with instructions to see if your computer meets system requirements. If your Internet connection is spotty at times, you might find a cubicle at a local library with free wi-fi, or ask a friend if you can set up at his or her place.

    5 of 12
  • remind yourself with sticky notes to keep virtual career fair conversations focused
    Istock

    Keep Your Conversations Focused and Professional

    Your goal is to connect with all the companies you have on your list. These can be instantaneous conversations, so be careful to keep it formal. Use "Mr." and "Ms." Avoid emoticons and watch for typos. Post sticky notes on your desk to remind you of three main selling points about yourself. These will help you stay focused, if a conversation gets rolling. Be patient for a response. With lots of questions coming in from other job seekers, it can take some time for the recruiter to answer.

    6 of 12
  • Discover Yourself Through Your Work

    AARP Offer: Discover Yourself Through Work

    Discover work tools and resources to achieve successful next career steps.   Join AARP today for great job information and discounts  

    7 of 12
  • Look professional so you're ready for impromptu video interviews at a virtual career fair
    Istock

    Be Prepared for an Impromptu Video Interview

    Recruiters might ask if you can launch into a video interview, usually Skype, on the spot. This means that you need to understand in advance how these virtual interviews work. Check out my tips for a video interview.

    8 of 12
  • Company recruiters may be in the chat room during a virtual career fair
    Istock

    Surf Chat Rooms

    Stop by not just the firm’s “booth,” but its chat room, too. Recruiters and hiring managers are often accessible in the chat rooms. You will be able to read what other job seekers are asking and hear more from the hiring managers manning the booth about the company culture and more. 

    9 of 12
  • Send thank you emails to anyone you talked to during a virtual job fair
    Istock

    Send Thank You Notes

    Always send "Thank You" emails to anyone you talked to online, and be sure to attach your résumé. Reference something from your conversation with them as a reminder of who you are. Handwritten notes are great, but you may not have access to that mailing information. It’s not wrong to do both, particularly if there’s more you’d like to share with the interviewer, or if you have additional questions.

    10 of 12
  • Virtual career fairs are about networking and laying the groundwork for future opportunities
    Istock

    Be Realistic

    Not that many people actually get hired via the job fair itself. Employers mine these events to gather résumés that potentially lead to future phone and in-person interviews. The networking and educational opportunities these fairs present are far-reaching. You never know where these contacts can lead you in your job search.

    11 of 12
  • Retirement, social security, careers, spending money
    12 of 12

AARP Discounts: Discover great deals and savings as an AARP member