CDC Resources

CDC Resources

Virtual Career Fair Prep

Attending a career fair? Learn about what to expect, what to do, and how to make the most out of a career fair either in person or virtually.

Key Takeaways

  • Career fairs are great opportunities for networking. Building your network is crucial, and you can benefit from meeting with professionals in your industry even if you are not applying for an internship or looking for jobs. Attending a career fair can help you with connections, confidence, and interviewing skills.
  • Update your résumé and make sure that it is tailored for the communications industry. You can schedule an appointment, visit the CDC (313 N3) during drop-in hours, or send us an email at nhcdc@syr.edu.
  • Learn as much as you can about the companies participating. Learn about their mission, culture, and values; what they do; products and services; current projects; and locations. 
  • Practice your pitch. Be prepared to introduce yourself effectively by sharing who you are, your qualifications, and why you are interested in the company.
  • Dress professionally. Although this is in a virtual format, you want to dress as you would if it was an in person interview. Questions about what to wear, email the CDC at nhcdc@syr.edu

FAQ

Are employers able to see my résumé? Or should I send an email before our session? Plus sign

Yes, employers can see your résumé via Handshake. You don’t need to contact the employer in advance to share the document. Make sure that you upload the latest version of your résumé. Make sure to update your Handshake profile as well.

How do I introduce myself to an employer? Plus sign

You need to craft your pitch. A good pitch should be a clear, succinct, and convincing testament to how your experience, accomplishments, and skills make you an invaluable asset. It should also be creative, reflective of your personality (you don’t want to sound like you’re reading cue cards or just listing qualities). Learn more about crafting your pitch here

I can see an employer, but I can’t see their sessions. Does this mean the employer is fully booked? Plus sign

If you are unable to view or sign up for sessions, it may mean that the employer is either fully booked or hasn’t created their schedule yet.

If the employer is fully booked, keep checking the platform in case a spot opens up. If the employer hasn’t created their schedule, please wait until October 1, 2026, which is the deadline for them to do so.

If you have questions about whether an employer is fully booked or hasn’t created a schedule, contact nhcdc@syr.edu

What questions should I ask an employer? Plus sign

Ask questions that show that you have done your research and have a genuine interest.

The best questions to ask are those that come from your own research and after you spend some time learning about the company. You can ask about recent initiatives, current programs, or future plans. You can ask for details about internships or entry-level training programs. You can also ask about the interview process.

Avoid asking questions that can be easily answered or whose answers can be found on their website.

I joined a session, but the employer didn’t show up. What should I do? Plus sign

If an employer does not attend a session, please email the Career Development Center at nhcdc@syr.edu with the following details:

  • Your full name.
  • The employer or company name.
  • The time and type of session (1:1 or group).

A career counselor will follow up with the employers and request that they contact you to schedule a meeting after the virtual career fair.

In the meantime, continue focusing on your upcoming sessions.

I signed up for a meeting with an employer and something came up. What should I do? Plus sign

If you cannot attend your session, ensure that you cancel your participation in the individual session. After canceling, send a message to the employer.

Avoid the temptation to simply not show up. Employers can see your name and may be willing to meet with you at another time. Always behave professionally!

How can I follow up with an employer? Plus sign

Make an effort to follow up with an employer. Get in the habit of collecting the names of recruiters, their titles, and their contact information. If the career fair is hosted in person, take good notes so you can send an email.

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