Virtual career fair resources

The University of Washington Bothell Career Services is currently hosting all fairs virtually via Handshake. If you do not have a Handshake account, create an employer account or if you have not connected with the University of Washington submit a request under “schools” in your account. Note: UW Bothell shares a Handshake account with UW Seattle.

Overview

The platform will allow for pre-scheduled 1:1 video chats along with group sessions. Each company’s registration will include:

  • Each representative will be able to create their own 1:1 schedule. These schedules include 10-minute slots with the ability to set student qualifications.
  • Each company will be able to host group sessions with Handshake video that may last up to 30 minutes with a limit of 50 attendees for each session throughout the event. The 50-person limit includes any one from you staff presenting.
  • If you need to host a group session for greater than 50 attendees, or you would prefer to use an external platform, an external video platform link may be used.

Important details

  • All employer representatives are required to have active Handshake user accounts before they are able to set up 1:1 schedules or participate in group sessions.
  • Representative names, 1:1 schedules, and group sessions do not need to be set when you register for the fair. However, however we highly recommend that your complete your session schedules by the registration deadline or when students registration opens (whichever comes first). This will allow students to sign up for sessions as soon as registration opens if they choose. Students will not be able to meet with you unless you schedule these sessions.
  • When registering, include any/all contacts you would like to receive communication about the fair including those responsible for payment.

Handshake resources for registration and fair participation

Virtual Fairs in Handshake: A Guide for Employers
A step-by-step guide with instructions and checklist on how to register, schedule sessions, claim schedules, prepare for the fair, launch your sessions the day-of the fair, and follow up after the fair.

Handshake’s Guide to Virtual Career Fairs 2.0
A downloadable guide for those who like to have a printed copy available. The Guide, listed above is easier for follow and is updated regularly.

Before the fair

Preparing for the day-of a virtual
This resource provides a step-by-step guide from registration through the day of the fair.

Video: training videos for employers
See exactly how video sessions work for both 1:1 or group sessions.

Handshake video requirements & troubleshooting (employers)
It is important to ensure you and your representatives review these requirements. If you have any difficulty meeting these requirements, you would touch base with your IT department.

Handshake video test
Be sure to test your video. This resource will walk you through the process. You should review the requirement before testing your video.

The Day of the Fair

It’s a good idea to log in to the session early on the day of the fair to grant permissions needed by your computer/browser and test audio, video, and screen sharing!

How do I host sessions?

  • Step-by-step instructions on how to launch your video and get your session started are available in this resource, Hosting Virtual Fair Sessions.
  • On the day of the fair, you’ll be able to launch sessions up to 60 minutes ahead of your start time to test your audio and video connection.

Note: Students are able to join up to five minutes early to test their connection, so please know that if you are in a session early, students could appear early as well.

What browser should I use for the fair?

Handshake works best with Chrome. Please note that virtual fair video screensharing within Handshake will only be supported on Chrome and Firefox.

After the fair

After your sessions are over, follow up with participants! You can send messages in Handshake, download resumes, and Host Virtual Interviews!