Stand Out at Your Next Virtual Career Fair

Universities are preparing for the next school year and among the many types of virtual offerings will be a variety of events to include virtual career fairs. Instead of looking at the opportunity as a disadvantage because you can’t make in-person contact with potential employers, think of it as an opportunity to shine under a different type of pressure.

A virtual career fair has some definite rewards when you know how to use them to your advantage. Making the most out of your virtual career fair experience has everything to do with how you navigate the experience from beginning to end. It’s not difficult if you follow some simple steps.

Register Early

You will have plenty of reminders of upcoming career fairs. They will come to your inbox and prompt you to register. Don’t procrastinate or put it off until later. When you register beforehand, you will have time to research the companies and representatives that will be in attendance. Review the organizations and come up with some solid questions you want to ask during the event. At the time of registration, you may likely upload a resume and fill out a questionnaire about your interests. You will be matched with a list of employers who are looking for your skills. This will give you time to do your research.  

Update Your Social Media Platforms

If you haven’t already, now is the time to take a good look at your social media accounts. Clean them up and add some fresh, new pictures and thoughts to your page which reflect who you are as a person. They don’t have to be professional but show a glimpse of your life, values and how you spend your time. The exception is LinkedIn, which is an excellent platform to add professional information and your aspirations as an up and coming business person. Make sure your LinkedIn account has a current, professional photo in the profile.

Show Up Camera Ready to the Event

You wouldn’t arrive in your pajamas to an in-person meeting so take the necessary time to “dress up” for the virtual career event. Dress professional and remember the camera picks up busy patterns and loud colors. While you want to look professional, select a small accent piece that will allow you to stand out. A nice tie (not silly), an interesting pin on your dress or sweater, something that will “pop” without shouting “I’m here.”

Proof Your Resume

A week in advance have a trusted friend proofread your resume for any issues you may have overlooked. It should be concise, easy to read and free from any formatting problems or typos. It is the first impression a hiring manager will make of you and your abilities. It’s imperative to put ample time and effort into putting your best foot forward with a fresh and updated resume.

Just as if you were engaging in person, your goal is the same. To make strong contacts and leave a positive and lasting impression.

Do a Technology Check

Download the necessary software and do a precheck for lighting, sound and background noise. Be hands-free from your device by using a laptop or desktop computer rather than holding your cell phone in your hand. Plan to wear a pair of headphones to minimize background noise if you are in a loud room.

Make a Statement

One of the hardest things for people to do is walk up to a stranger and start a conversation. At an onsite event, this is what you would be expected to do. At a virtual career fair, you must also step out of your comfort zone and introduce yourself and ask thoughtful questions. It would be tempting to sit back and not engage, but you will miss a valuable opportunity. There is a balance between articulating verbally and communicating in the chat. When you communicate by chat, avoid emojis, slang and abbreviated words.

Your Body Language Speaks Volumes

While it may feel foreign to look into a little black dot on the computer, rather than directly at the person who is speaking, remember that direct eye contact comes across only if you are looking into the camera lens. Sit in a chair that encourages good posture, keep your hands above the table, not on your lap, and smile when the conversation warrants. You can take notes but don’t spend the entire time with your head down.

Close With Next Steps

When the virtual career fair is over, thank the recruiter and ask how they prefer to stay in touch. Follow up within one business day (8 to 24 hours) with an email thanking them for their time and mention something you learned about the company. This correspondence will leave them with your follow up information and open the door to further communication.

You might also like Face Mask Etiquette at a Job Interview. For more of Diane’s etiquette tips read her posts on Inc., subscribe to her articles on The Huffington Post, “like” The Protocol School of Texas on Facebook, and follow her on Pinterest, Instagram and Twitter.

Virtual Training Opportunity

Have you always dreamed of fine-tuning your skills or honing your professional skills? Now is our opportunity. I am offering virtual training where I will work with you in a private session. This is a limited time offer, click here for more details.