What you need to know about this year’s career fairs

This fall, Business Career Services will host its Accounting Career Fair (11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Friday, Sept. 11) and Business Career Fair (11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Friday, Sept. 18) virtually. Here’s what you need to know.

1. Set up an account through Career Fair Plus, our partner in this year’s virtual career fairs.

Download the app for Apple or Android devices, then search for The University of Kansas. Select the event or events that you plan to attend. Be sure to upload your resume to get the most out your profile.

2. Prepare ahead of time.

Research the employers participating and schedule virtual meetings. In the app, select the employer you’re interested in, then virtual meeting and choose a meeting time. Meetings will be one-on-one and conducted live via video chat. Each meeting will last 5 to 10 minutes, and students can start signing up for meetings one week before each career fair. The virtual career fairs will primarily consist of meetings, so you’ll want to make sure to schedule them, although some employers may have opportunities for students to drop in to virtual rooms and participate in conversations.

3. Take advantage of virtual tabling.

Network with recruiters, learn about their organizations and more through virtual tabling events with select employers in the weeks before the career fairs. See what employers are offering tablings in Career Fair Plus.

4. Test your tech.

Make sure that you can access your appointments and that your video and microphone are working correctly on the device you plan to use for meetings. We recommend using a computer rather than a smartphone. Note that virtual meetings will take place through another app called Whereby, which you may be prompted to download.

5. Dress to impress.

Even though you’re not meeting with employers in person, they will still be able to see you via video. Business Career Services advises wearing business professional attire — ideally, a suit. Business casual attire, such as a collared shirt, blouse or dress, is also acceptable.

Find additional tips for virtual career fairs here, and watch the video below for additional details about the business career fairs.