Before March 2020, what was the likelihood of receiving a ‘attend our virtual fair’ invitation? Although virtual fairs may not have been completely new, it does beg the question how aware were we of the option pre-pandemic and did we think it would be the new norm.
But it does allow us to rethink about how we interact in the future, and whether online allows for a more genuine engagement from those keen to apply in the near future. And whether attending virtual fairs is more productive for businesses.
Luminate Prospects lists 5 key benefits for businesses to continue to attend online careers fairs, from saving costs and time, to tracking performance measures more efficiently.
But what is the benefit for small businesses?
For small businesses, it may not have always been an easy option to take time to travel and attend careers fairs. The time out to attend could be all day, something not necessarily easy for small businesses.
Allowing for fairs to remain virtual could be ideal for recruiting local student and graduate talent more frequently than they may have before. It also allows the option to widen the radius and attend nationally.
vFAIRS blog discusses further benefits as to ‘why virtual job fairs are here to stay’. Most notably the rise of remote working and the most likely scenario of employees not returning to the office full time. Opening the search for a wider radius than just local ‘on your doorstep’, as more are able to work remotely.
Birmingham City University has been working with businesses to hold sessions such as ‘Meet the Employer’ and small bespoke fairs. Something which if kept, could be just as valuable for small businesses, who will still be balancing time post-pandemic.
More virtual, more reach
Breaking down barriers and allowing for fairs to more easily accessible than physical in person events. Allowing for more small and medium businesses to attend, as well as students and graduates who may have found it too difficult to travel in on specific days.
Adapting to virtual delivery has been key for businesses and universities, but it is also shown the benefits to both students and graduates, and businesses. Both in saving cost and time, but also opening up more options that may have once been limited.
However there can be some challenges with remaining virtual, especially for new starters. Our previous blog discusses how to support graduates in the workplace.
Thinking of attending a virtual careers fair? It is always useful to check with the provider for the fair on Q&A’s or top tips to help prepare for joining.
If you’re considering upskilling your workforce, why not check out our Higher Level Skills Match programme and gain additional skills and knowledge through new recruits and retrained employees.
