That's what Shawn Carlson wondered when he heard about the online event at his alma mater Roosevelt University in Chicago. Virtual job fairs are Internet sites where employers can target specific types of candidates. Like their on-campus counterparts, these forums offer participants the opportunity to research an organization's background, locations and open positions, including salaries, hours and qualifications.
Visitors also can submit resumes and learn how to find more information.
When Mr. Carlson dropped by Roosevelt's career services center in January 1998, he'd been working as a hospitality and event planning contractor and was looking for a new position. He logged on, selected a dozen employers to contact and followed up. He heard back from four and within two weeks he landed a job as a convention planner for the Hyatt Regency Chicago. Ill. College and university forums typically last about a month and precede or coincide with campus events. Another benefit is the attention employers often give these applicants.