Many college students have transitioned to online classes this year, but virtual career fairs and other recruiting events can still feel awkward and unfamiliar. About three-quarters (74%) of college students who are looking for a full-time job or internship are likely to participate in virtual recruiting events. And there are a few ways campus recruiters can reach the one-quarter who aren’t interested.
A new survey of 2,000 undergraduates finds that about 3 in 10 (31%) students who are looking for a job but say they are unlikely to attend virtual recruiting events attribute it to their major. The other 69% do not — and those are the students who might be persuaded to participate.
Many of these students simply prefer in-person interactions. “Face-to-face interviewing feels more friendly,” a Miami University student says. But these students could be open to making the transition if they see a company they’re interested in participating and know what to expect.
“I am usually somewhat likely to attend recruiting events, so if they’re virtual I am slightly less inclined to participate,” a University of Oregon student says. “However, that could change once I experience one.”
Female Students are More Likely to Prefer Virtual Events They Can Listen to Without Interacting
What, if anything, would make you more likely to attend a virtual recruiting event? Select all that apply.
A majority (58%) of students who are unlikely to participate in virtual events say they would be more likely to attend if companies they want to work for are included. What’s more, female students are more likely than male students to attend if they can just listen without interacting with people (52% vs. 33%), or if they can learn broadly useful skills like resume tips (44% vs. 30%).
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Methodology: This survey was designed and conducted by College Pulse. Interviews were conducted among a sample of 2,000 full-time and part-time students attending four-year colleges or universities in the U.S. who are part of College Pulse’s American College Student Panel.
