Navigating the workforce can feel overwhelming, and our current virtual environment presents additional challenges. Career Services is ready to help connect Warriors with a variety of employers during its Virtual Career Fair Wednesday, Feb. 24, from noon to 4 p.m. Students of any major are invited to attend to learn about internships and part- or full-time job opportunities. A growing list of employers will be available for one-on-one conversations or group sessions. Registration is now open via Handshake.
To help prepare for the Virtual Career Fair, check out these tips from Career Services and careercast.com:
Do your homework
Spend some time visiting registered employers’ websites and LinkedIn profiles to learn about the company and what open positions they may have. Planning ahead and being prepared will improve your experience and your chances for success.
Get your house in order
Before you sit down to log on to the job fair, spend some time tidying your space. Many employers will want to video chat, and the last thing you want them to see is a stack of empty pizza boxes or other clutter. Take a few minutes and step behind your computer to see what your space looks like from the vantage point of your camera.
Dress for success
While virtual job fairs may seem less formal than traditional ones, they are not. Employers take virtual career fairs seriously, and you should too. Dressing professionally helps send the right message.
Have your paperwork ready
Make sure you have your résumé ready! If possible, tailor your résumé for every company you’ll connect with, and have each saved to your desktop for quick access.
Check your connection
Before you log on, double check your battery to see that it’s fully charged and make sure you have stable internet connection.
Stay classy
Just because you’re at home doesn’t mean you should forget to be professional. Remember to address recruiters in a virtual environment with the same respect you would in person. Professionalism should be a consideration in any online chats, too — this is not the time or place for emojis or OMGs!
Take notes
After spending some time researching the employers, make sure you take notes during the job fair. You can use those notes to develop points of discussion about how you would be valuable part of their team, how your experience translates to their goals and how you can help.
Follow up
Send thank you notes to everyone who takes the time to talk with you. It will impress them, and will help keep your name and résumé top of mind.
Remember to register today for the Virtual Career Fair Feb. 24!
Career Services also provides a variety of free resources, and can help identify and work toward career goals; find suitable jobs, careers or internships; teach job search skills; network with employers; and boost career development skills. Learn more at careerservices.wayne.edu.