Ready to take the virtual plunge?
Due to the restrictions set in place by the pandemic, it's been a lot harder for students and graduates to find employment opportunities during their studies.
While internships and placements have been reduced, lots of traditional university events have switched to virtual. Career fairs, webinars, and advice panels are all designed to fill the gap in opportunity and help students feel more confident about entering the job world.
If you're still a little hesitant to book onto a virtual fair, then here's everything you need to know to get started....
1. Research the event
First and foremost, research the event that you want to attend. Make sure to look at the list of exhibitors and see if there are any companies or graduate schemes which interest you. Knowing who will be there and what you're likely to get out of the event will make signing up a little easier and you'll go into the event with a clear plan of what to expect already in mind.
2. Get your CV ready
Secondly, take some time to perfect your CV. This is one of the key documents which will be used by recruiters to determine whether or not you're suited to their organisation. Make sure your CV is ATS friendly and can be read in multiple digital formats. Sticking to .pdf documents will ensure that your CV will be able to be opened and read by almost every operating system, and can help keep your structure intact.
3. Visit the platform before the event starts
It's also a good idea to familiarise yourself with the event platform before it starts. This will ensure that you know how to navigate it on the day and don't waste any time figuring it out when you could be speaking to potential employers. It'll also let you see the best ways to share and interact with recruiters and your fellow job-hunters.
4. Prepare questions in advance
While you might not get the chance to ask them all, it's a good idea to prepare your questions in advance. This will mean that you're not scrambling to think of something to say when speaking to a representative and can keep your conversation flowing freely. Remember, the whole point of a career fair is to answer any questions and help ease any job-hunting anxieties - so use it as an opportunity to connect and learn.
5. Camera on or off?
Unlike in-person career fairs, virtual events give you a little bit more anonymity. Although it's nice to show your face to recruiters and employers to help build a more genuine connection, it's ultimately up to you whether you switch your camera on. If you're feeling a little more anxious or unsure about the event, then having the option to not show your face could help you to still participate in the event and have your questions answered.
By following these simple steps, you can make the most out of virtual career fairs and ensure that you're one step closer to securing your dream job or graduate scheme. Good luck!