Virtual interview and meeting etiquette tips
To avoid the congestion of a busy job fair and reduce the risk of job seekers being exposed to COVID-19, ARIZONA@WORK is now holding its job fairs completely virtual.
Just because a job fair is virtual doesn’t mean you can’t stand out among the pixelated faces of your fellow job seekers and make a lasting impression on an employer. Here are answers to five common questions regarding virtual job fairs.
Before attending any job fair, it may be helpful to virtually meet with an ARIZONA@WORK employment specialist who can assist you build a strong resume. All job seekers are also encouraged to attend ARIZONA@WORK virtual employment readiness workshops, and create a digital resume on Arizona’s largest jobs database, Arizona Job Connection.
Make sure your equipment is good to go. Login to the virtual job fair at least 15 minutes before it is scheduled to begin, to ensure that you are not having trouble connecting.
Also, be sure to research the hiring companies beforehand. Get to know the company culture and open positions, so you can be prepared to display your interest and knowledge in their organization.
To connect with an employment specialist, call your local ARIZONA@WORK office.
In most cases, there will be an opportunity for you to ask questions after the hiring managers discuss the openings they have available. The ARIZONA@WORK specialist who is facilitating the event will let attendees know when they can ask questions. Questions can be asked either through the chat, phone or on screen. Employers are eager to hire and are looking for engagement in the session.
Asking questions is a great way to let employers know your interest and investment with the position.
This is your time to shine! It is recommended, but not required, to show yourself dressed in your best business attire. Check how you look on screen before turning on your camera for everybody else. Sit in front of a wall or area with a simple background, free of distractions and minimal noise. Be sure you're in the frame with decent lighting, and keep friends, family and pets out of the picture.
If you decide to be on screen, make sure you display strong, confident body language, and smile to show your engagement.
It is also acceptable to keep your camera off and submit questions and comments in the text chat, if you prefer. Ensure your communication is professional. Every interaction counts!
Have your resume updated and proof read ahead of time. Creating and updating your resume is easy using the Arizona Job Connection website. Having your resume uploaded prior will make it accessible and ready to send to the employer. Be prepared with a pitch to highlight your greatest accomplishments, skills, and interests. This will provide you an opportunity to show you are the best candidate.
Additionally, with preparing your resume in Arizona Job Connection, you can easily and quickly apply for open positions.
Employers will take the time to review resumes and reach out via phone or email to schedule a follow-up interview. Check your email regularly, including your spam inbox, to be certain you do not miss any messages from the employer. It is acceptable to contact the employer to check on your application status and ask where they are in the hiring process.
To view upcoming virtual job fairs and workshops, please visit the ARIZONA@WORK events page and follow us on Facebook and Twitter.