At the time of this writing, over a third of the world’s population is experiencing some form of “stay-at-home” order which has likely affected your networking and career fair prospects. Major conferences and events have been postponed or canceled so making new contacts at reception or over drinks isn’t in the cards right now. However, there are still ways to stay in touch and expand your professional network. 

Virtual Networking Online

There are a number of social platforms that are excellent for business-to-business networking, especially LinkedIn and Twitter. Fortunately, these channels have been around for a while and have millions of members across hundreds of countries. Schedule time in your day to create some original content to post, respond to others’ content, and share articles and insights.

Using LinkedIn, 

• you can filter your searches and find just the right companies or people based on a name, location, industry, or other criteria.  Before you begin, be sure your profile is complete, current, and professional. Add a few details about yourself to round out a picture of who you are.  
• introduce yourself and connect with other users. If you’re already connected, reach out to them directly and if not, use the inMail service to make your introduction.  
• join a few LinkedIn Groups.  It’s a great way to network with your peers and engage in conversations about trends and relevant topics.
• follow specific organizations and set up vacancy alerts so you’re notified when there’s an opening.

Using Twitter,

• even though it’s not specifically for business, there are over a billion accounts with whom to build your network.
• again, be sure your username/picture is professional and your profile is complete. 
• follow companies and people that are relevant to your job search.
• search for users based on location, title, company, or other information.
• start conversations and engage using hashtag threads.
• take advantage of Twitter lists to separate out the users you want to engage with.

Using Facebook,

• create a professional page for your profile with your education, interests, and a short bio.
• join a few groups and network with those with similar interests and skills.
• share content, comment on others’ posts, and engage in discussions.
• make a point to connect with people you know in online communities and groups.

Aside from social media platforms, consider attending webinars and virtual conferences in your area of expertise or interest, set up video calls with groups of contacts, and sign up for online classes or roundtable discussions.

Attending Virtual Job Fairs

How is a Virtual Job Fair different from an online job board? A virtual career fair is an online “event.” It takes place at a specified time and employers “meet” with potential employees via chat rooms, video calls or webcasts to exchange information. As a job seeker, you upload your resume and may be matched with potential employers or you can “browse” booths to see what interests you.

You can “walk through the space” at your own pace, attending webinars or presentations at posted times. Most job fairs have a way to search for job openings and possibly make personal contact. It makes sense to prepare for the job fair just as you would for an in-person event.

Before the fair,

• register for the event, which should give you access to what companies are attending.
• research the companies and learn about the positions available and what they’re looking for.
• develop some questions that demonstrate your knowledge and interest.
• make sure your resume is current, thoroughly proofread, and customized to each employer.
• create your introduction and practice answers to likely questions you’ll be asked.
• test your internet connection and your devices ahead of time.

While attending the fair,

• use professional communication… no slang, poor grammar, or abbreviations.
• dress for a video chat just in case.
• make sure you get contact information and ask how/when to follow up.
• take notes during your chat so you can refer to specific items in your follow-up.

After the fair,

• send a thank you note that refers to specifics in your previous discussion.
• follow up as directed.

Virtual fairs can be much more focused than attending a fair in person. You can do your research in advance and know specifically who you want to target and what openings they may have. Since these fairs are typically free and don’t require you to travel, you can attend as many as you want and really survey the market.

Conclusion

In closing, because of the unique nature of this current pandemic, many people are facing challenges in all aspects of their lives. Needless to say, being sensitive to what may be happening to another individual, it makes sense to check in with them first before forging ahead with your business discussion. Ask how they are and chat a little to break the ice. This is the time to build relationships and make lasting connections. Getting a little personal may prove valuable both now and in the future.