Virtual Career Fair Includes Workforce Development Workshops

The Society for Human Resource Management’s Connecticut affiliate is taking a step towards tackling what many businesses are referring to as a hiring nightmare with a virtual career fair in January.

SHRM director Orlena Cowan-Bailey said the virtual setting is intended to maximize networking opportunities for both the employer and the job seeker.

The original event was scheduled for October, but has been rescheduled to Jan. 26 accommodate more employers. 

The event runs from 10 am to 2 pm, with a limited number of booths.

There are challenges to a virtual event, Cowan-Bailey admits, but she said there are perks too, including the convenience of reaching job seekers across the region.

Companies will have access to a demo day after they register, where they can learn how to use the virtual platform effectively.

“The beauty of this option is everything is digital, in real time,” explained Cowan-Bailey.

Interviews

Employers can set up some interviews beforehand as well as connect with job seekers in real time and conduct on-the-spot interviews.

Job seekers will create a full profile before the event with their resume and experience. That will allow employers to look up a job seeker immediately when they connect or before a scheduled interview.

While the career fair runs for four hours, employers can continue to engage with job seekers after the event.

Workforce development will also be a key component of the job fair, according to Cowan-Bailey.

Candidates will be able to participate in workshops about how to prepare for the virtual hiring process.

Various speakers will present live throughout the day and in recorded sessions to teach job seekers about strengthening their applications.