How to Prepare for a Virtual Job Fair

Virtual job fairs are a great way to learn about job openings. You can chat with hiring managers and recruiters by visiting online booths from different companies. You can learn more about employers, ask questions and share your skills and abilities.

Have you registered for the Ticket to Work Virtual Job Fair taking place on August 24 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET? If so, here are some tips to research job openings and prepare yourself for online chats and interviews with employers:

1. Look at the list of employers taking part in the virtual job fair: https://choosework.net/find-a-job/virtual-job-fairs/index.html. This list will be updated as new employers are added.
2. Click on each employer’s name in the link above to read about the organization and job openings.
3. Read the job descriptions that sound interesting to you. Take notes about job qualifications. Think about the skills, experience or interests you have that qualify you to apply. (You may even consider applying before the event.  If you do, write down the job title and job number for future reference.)

Once you know which jobs interest you, prepare for online chats with potential employers. Researching leads and preparing for a virtual job fair can show that you’re ready to work. It can also show the dedication and preparation you can bring to the workplace

During the virtual job fair, you can chat online with employers. Present yourself as ready to work. Here are some things you can do to prepare:

1. Be professional. During the virtual job fair, dress like you’re at an in-person interview. It will make you feel more professional and focused. When you’re chatting online with the employer, be thoughtful and professional with the words you choose. Don’t use slang, abbreviations or emoticons. Use complete sentences with proper punctuation and grammar.
2. Share stories. Be prepared with specific examples of how you’re qualified for job openings. Share stories about how your skills and experiences make you the right fit for the job. If you applied for a job online before the event, and you’re chatting with that employer, tell the employer which job you applied for and provide the job number.
3. Say thank you. When finishing a chat, thank the employer for their time. Follow up by sending a thank-you email that day. In your email, include a short summary of your chat and remind the employer of your interest in the job opening. You may also want to include your resume to remind them of your skills and qualifications.

Good luck!

Other Ticket to Work Virtual Job Fair resources:

Event details: August 24, 2016 Virtual Job Fair
Orientation video: Ticket to Work Virtual Job Fair Orientation
Blog: How to get the most out of a Virtual Job Fair

About Ticket to Work

Social Security’s Ticket to Work program supports career development for people age 18 through 64 who receive Social Security disability benefits (SSI or SSDI) and want to work. The Ticket program is free and voluntary. It helps people with disabilities move toward financial independence and connects them with the services and support they need to succeed in the workforce.

Learn more

To learn more about Ticket Work, contact the Ticket to Work Help Line at 1-866-968-7842 (Voice) or 1-866-833-2967 (TTY) Monday to Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. ET. Ask a representative to send you a list of service providers or find providers on your own with the Ticket to Work Find Help tool.