Mastering Virtual Career Fairs: Student Tips to Engage with Employers

In the digital age, virtual career fairs have become an essential part of the job search process for students. While these events offer unique opportunities to connect with potential employers, navigating them effectively can be daunting. Whether you’re attending your first VirtualGradExpo or looking to improve your approach, here are some invaluable tips to help you engage with employers and make the most out of the experience.

Do Your Homework

Before approaching recruiters, spend some time on their virtual stand and familiarise yourself with the materials available on the employer stands. This will help you identify the opportunities that align with your interests and qualifications. Learning a little about the company, the opportunities on offer and the minimum requirements to apply will help you to avoid asking questions that you could have answered for yourself simply by reading a brochure.

Craft Your Elevator Pitch

Time is precious at virtual career fairs, so have a concise “pitch” ready when approaching employers. Introduce yourself, mention your studies, future plans, and inquire about the best way to connect with the company. Use the employer’s preferred communication channel to engage further.

Sell Yourself First

When engaging with recruiters, start by discussing your studies and interests, and why you’re interested in joining this particular employer, before inquiring about what the company can offer you. Questions about salaries and other benefits right at the beginning of the conversation can come across as self-centred. By sharing a little about yourself and your interest in the company first, you demonstrate genuine interest instead.

Take Charge of the Conversation

Once you’ve gone through the materials provided on the employer stands, and started a meaningful conversation with the employer, don’t let nerves hold you back. Remember, virtual career fairs are not just about companies meeting you; they’re also your chance to “interview” the various employers. Ask as many questions as you can to gain even more insight into the roles on offer and the company culture.

Utilise Private Chat Functions

Avoid overwhelming public chatrooms with too many questions. Recruiters might miss your questions amongst the thousands of other students also posting on public chats. Instead, request to be directed to a private chat where you can engage more effectively with recruiters and receive personalised assistance.

Mind Your Manners

When engaging in private chat, greet recruiters by name, state the purpose of your conversation, and ask your question directly. Remember to express gratitude for their input, as they may be juggling multiple conversations simultaneously.

Attend Employer Webinars

Take advantage of employer-hosted webinars to gain valuable insights into their organization and culture. Use the information shared in these sessions as conversation starters during private chats with recruiters.

Don’t Be Shy

Recruiters are eager to engage with students, so don’t hesitate to initiate conversations. Approach the virtual career fair with confidence and treat it as you would an in-person event, seizing the opportunity to forge connections with potential employers.

Virtual career fairs present students with a unique platform to interact with employers and explore future opportunities. By following these tips and strategies, you can navigate these events with confidence, make meaningful connections, and advance your career prospects. Remember, preparation and proactive engagement are key to maximizing your virtual career fair experience.

The VirtualGradExpo, powered by SAGEA, offers students one location to find and apply to opportunities for 2025.

From bursaries and scholarships for your next year of study, to work experience and graduate opportunities, the VirtualGradExpo is your one-stop platform to explore information and apply to opportunities any time between May and August 2024. You’ll also be able to chat with employers online during live days and attend webinars to get to know the companies you’re most interested in.

Register to attend VirtualGradExpo 2024