As a job seeker in today’s competitive market, preparing for a virtual career fair is essential to make a strong impression and secure potential opportunities. With the upcoming AWIS Virtual Career Fair on March 13, we’re sharing actionable tips to help you stand out and maximize your experience. By following these best practices, you can confidently showcase your skills, personality, and career aspirations to prospective employers.
1. Prepare and Update Your Resume
Your resume is your professional snapshot—make sure it’s polished and up to date. Tailor it to the types of roles you’re targeting, and wherever possible, quantify your achievements. Numbers speak volumes and can make your impact clearer.
For example:
- Instead of “Managed a team of researchers,” say “Managed a team of 5 researchers, increasing project efficiency by 20%.”
- Replace “Organized events” with “Coordinated 10 STEM outreach events, engaging over 1,000 participants.”
Ensure your resume is formatted for easy reading and includes keywords relevant to your industry or field. Consider having a PDF version ready to share during the fair.
2. Research Employers Beforehand
Preparation is key to standing out at a virtual career fair. Start by researching the participating employers to understand their mission, vision, and values. Review their website, press releases, or recent news to gain insights into their goals and workplace culture.
Having this knowledge allows you to tailor your approach. For example, if their mission aligns with advancing women in STEM, you can reference this connection when discussing your interest in their company. This level of preparation demonstrates genuine enthusiasm and sets the stage for a meaningful conversation.
Pro Tip: Use your research to craft a compelling answer to why you want to work at this company. This ties directly into your elevator pitch and shows you’ve put thought into how your goals align with their mission.
3. Master Your Elevator Pitch
Your elevator pitch is your 30-second introduction to who you are, what you bring to the table, and what you’re looking for in your career. It’s not just about listing your accomplishments—it’s about creating a personal and professional connection.
Here’s a simple structure to craft your pitch:
- Introduce yourself: Share your name, educational background, or current role.
- Highlight your key skills: Focus on strengths relevant to the company or industry.
- Express your goals: State what you’re looking for and why it excites you.
For example: “Hi, my name is ____, and I recently graduated with a degree in biomedical engineering. I specialize in research and data analysis, with experience in designing healthcare solutions that improve patient outcomes. I’m passionate about innovation in STEM and am excited to learn more about [company name] because of your commitment to advancing women in science.”
4. Apply for Open Positions in Advance
If you’re an early registrant, take the initiative to review and apply for open positions before the fair. This positions you as a proactive candidate. During conversations, you can mention the specific roles you’ve applied for, which showcases your genuine interest and preparation.
Example: “I’ve applied for the Product Manager position with your team and am excited to discuss how my background in project management and engineering aligns with the role.”
5. Be Ready to Ask Thoughtful Questions
Recruiters value candidates who engage in meaningful conversations. Asking informed, role-specific questions not only highlights your preparation but also helps you determine if the company is the right fit for your goals.
Here are some example questions to stand out:
- Can you describe a typical day for someone in this position?
- How does your company foster professional development and mentorship?
- What traits do you see in employees who succeed at [company name]?
6. Don’t Forget to Follow Up After the Fair
The connections you make during the fair don’t end when the event does. Following up with recruiters is a crucial step in building relationships and keeping your name top of mind.
If a recruiter shares their contact information, send a thank-you email within 24-48 hours. Reference your conversation, express your continued interest, and reiterate how you see yourself contributing to their team.
Example Follow-Up Email:
Hello [Name of Recruiter],
Thanks again for the opportunity to meet you at the [name/location of career fair] on [date]! [Personal detail.]
It was great learning about [detail from meeting], and I believe my [relevant, personal experience] would make me a great fit for [Company].
I would love to connect regarding a potential career with [Company] and look forward to hearing from you in the future.
Thanks again for your time!
Best,
[Your Name]
7. Remember to Show Up as Your Best Self
Virtual career fairs may feel impersonal, but your personality and professionalism can set you apart. Smile, stay personable, and let your enthusiasm shine—strong interpersonal skills are especially valued in STEM fields, enhancing collaboration and teamwork.
While showcasing your unique energy, maintain professionalism by dressing appropriately (business casual or formal), testing your technology, and finding a quiet, well-lit space for the event. Actively listen, make eye contact, and respond thoughtfully to leave a positive impression.
Confidence, preparation, and authenticity are key. Be clear about your career goals, engage in meaningful conversations, and demonstrate initiative, adaptability, and a growth mindset to connect with employers who share your values.
The AWIS Spring Virtual Career Fair took place on March 13, 2025.
Missed it? We encourage you to stay connected with AWIS for updates on our next Career Fair and other upcoming events by subscribing to our newsletter or following us on social media.
Sloan Rivers is a Digital Marketing Specialist at the Association for Women in Science (AWIS). She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Marketing from Indiana State University and has a strong background in marketing and communications. Her career spans healthcare, nonprofit, and professional service industries, where she has honed her skills in digital marketing, graphic design, and social media. Sloan is passionate about crafting dynamic campaigns, optimizing digital platforms, and leveraging data-driven insights to foster meaningful connections and advance impactful missions.