A student wearing a suit and tie looking at his lap top during an interview.

How to Prepare for the Virtual Spring Career Fair

Although the UA Career Center’s Spring Career Fair will take place virtually Feb. 22 and 24, participants will need to prepare the same as previous years when the fairs have taken place in-person.

A student wearing a suit and tie looking at his lap top during an interview.
Although the Career Fair will be virtual, employers will notice your attire. Make sure you’re dressed in business professional or business casual attire.

Here are a few pointers to get you ready to make a positive impression.

Download the Career Fair Plus App

The Career Fair Plus app is the portal to the Spring Career Fair. The app is free and available through the Apple App Store and Google Play. Use the app to build a profile, access career fair information, browse employers attending the fairs, schedule appointments with employers, add fairs to calendars and more.

Take Part in a Career Fair Crash Course

The UA Career Center will offer virtual Career Fair Crash Courses Feb. 18 at 3:30 p.m. and Feb. 21 at 5 p.m. Students can register via Handshake.

Research the Employers that Interest You 

Review the websites of the companies that interest you. A full list of the employers taking part in the Spring Career Fair can be found via Career Fair Plus.

Be Open to a Variety of Employers

While you may be strongly interested in a few companies, don’t let that steer you away from talking to as many employers as you want. Casting a wide net can pay off in the long run.

Prepare Your Résumé

Make sure your résumé is professional and up-to-date with the latest and most accurate information. If you need help preparing a résumé, schedule a virtual appointment to meet with a Career Center consultant.

Choose a Quiet, Clean Location with Reliable Internet Connection

Before starting a session with an employer, make sure you’re in a quiet, clutter-free environment to avoid any possible distractions. Also, ensure your internet connection is strong and won’t prevent you from being seen or heard.

Dress to Impress

Although the Career Fair will be virtual, employers will notice your attire. Make sure you’re dressed in business professional or business casual attire.

Show Confidence and Enthusiasm

Maintain good posture and eye contact. Position your camera so that they can see you from the waist up, and so that you can look directly across at them (not up or down).

Be Courteous and Thank Them for Their Time

Acknowledge that the employer is taking time out of their day to meet with you and be sure to express your appreciation. Also, ask about next steps if you’re interested in pursuing further communication following the Career Fair.

For more helpful tips and links to videos that can help prepare you for a successful Spring Career Fair, visit the UA Career Center’s website.

Contact

Bryant Welbourne, UA Strategic Communications, bryant.welbourne@ua.edu