Virtual Job Fairs: The Evolution of the Job Search

The Job Fair is perhaps the most basic of job search strategies; you go, hand a few employers your résumé, make small talk, interview, and hopefully receive a job offer. The game has changed, though: instead of driving to a job fair, you now can log on and meet employers using an avatar. The process is much the same as the traditional job fair, but for the use of avatars and digital documents. Many virtual job fairs are available. Some will run on a 24/7 basis, while others may only last a few days and between certain hours. The number of postings available and qualified candidates may influence the duration of an online job fair. One should be wary of job fairs that require a fee or any other form of payment. A job fair should be an opportunity for employers and candidates to connect, not an opportunity for a third party to make money. Some virtual reality sites like Second Life allow members to create avatars and interview online. The virtual job fair is a great tool for those looking to interview for positions in other states and those who wish to save on traveling expenses. Second Life and other virtual sites that host job fairs are beneficial to those seeking employment. The job search has evolved: virtual job fairs are bringing employment into the twenty-first century.