Last year around this time, tax season was coming to an end and staff calendars at the WSCPA were polka dotted with spring career fairs at college campuses statewide. However this year, our brush with COVID-19 has ushered in a “virtual economy”, complete with virtual career fairs, virtual networking sessions, and virtual interviews.
On Wednesday, May 13, 2020, the WSCPA will host our first Virtual Career Fair for accounting students and professionals throughout Washington State. To prepare for this we share with you our top eight tips for making a better impression at your next virtual career fair.
HAVE YOUR RESUME READY TO SHARE,
AND MAKE SURE IT REVEALS THE DATE
YOU WILL BE ELIGIBLE TO TAKE THE CPA EXAM.
Recruiters only have so much time to share with each candidate that visits their virtual booth. Having your resume ready to send, proof-read, and complete with your eligibility date saves time and earns extra-credit points in the eyes of a recruiter.
DRESS WELL AND PREPARE YOUR SETTING.
When you look good, you feel good. You have heard it before, and it can truly make a difference. Dress well and prepare your setting. Be professional, comfortable and make sure your background is clean, neat, and orderly.
VISIT EVERY BOOTH—LARGE FIRMS, SMALL FIRMS, AND INDUSTRY-AFFILIATED ORGANIZATIONS ALSO.
There are two reasons for this. First, by talking to the firms you are less interested in you’ll find a rhythm and calm your nerves before talking to the firms you’re really interested in. The second reason is that firms not already on your radar might surprise you with strong benefits or uncommon perks you may not have considered or been aware of. It’s a good idea to keep an open mind at these events. Plus, never underestimate the opportunity to make a great connection that can lead to a long lasting professional relationship. If you don’t visit every booth, you might be missing out.
HAVE A CAREER PLAN AND BE READY TO ARTICULATE IT.
A recruiter is very likely to ask you about your plans to get your CPA license. Avoid indecisive or vague responses. Be clear on what you plan to do to launch your career immediately after graduating. They want to know that you plan to take the educational requirements necessary and sit for the exam as soon as you can.
KNOW WHEN IT IS TIME TO MOVE ON.
This is not a formal interview. Firms have many people waiting to talk to them at these events, and you have several other booths to visit. Recognize that it is okay to walk away after a good conversation and leave on a high note. So plan your exit strategy. It is entirely appropriate to move on by saying, “You’ve been so helpful answering my questions and I appreciate your time. I know you have other people to talk with. May I have your contact information so that I can follow up with you in the future?”
MEET THE RECRUITER HALFWAY.
The firms are generally waiting for you to initiate the conversation. Sadly, I have seen students at career fairs that walk up to a recruiter’s table and then do absolutely nothing. An intense staring contest ensues until someone breaks the ice.
Recruiters know that these events can be intimidating for students and want to be helpful, but you need to meet them halfway. Research the firms in advance, have thoughtful questions ready, and prepare your introduction. You can talk about leadership roles you’ve held, summer leadership or intern experiences, or your career aspirations. If you have had any previous interaction with their firm, for instance attending a summer leadership event with them or competing in an accounting case competition they sponsored, be sure to mention it.
AVOID REUNION MENTALITY.
If you find that you know the interviewer—perhaps your interviewer is an alumni of your school—resist the urge to take a trip down memory lane. Keep it professional, and score bonus points by keeping the interview to your allotted time.
The WSCPA Virtual Career Fair is on Wednesday, May 13th from 11 am to 3 pm. Recruits will cycle virtually from booth to booth, making appointments along the way. You will have lots of practice delivering your elevator pitch and asking thoughtful questions about the firm. Don’t stress about making a few rookie mistakes here and there. You can also a make strong impression by following up immediately after the event.
Lastly, this will be a great opportunity to weigh your options and discover firsthand the nuances of workplace cultures large and small. Many employers appreciate the opportunity to share with recruits those nuances that make them stand out organizations with tight-knit work environments.
This event is free to all job seekers. You can sign up at https://reg.ecareerfairs.com/e/wscpa.
The WSCPA is rooting for you! Visit our virtual booth and chat with us for more insider tips and details on scholarship opportunities.