5 Tips for Making the Most of Virtual Law Fairs
Published September 29, 2020
The 2020 recruitment season has begun and chances are some (or most) of the law fairs on your schedule will be virtual. But just because COVID-19 has thrown a wrench into typical fall season plans, it doesn’t mean you can’t still take advantage of all that virtual law fairs can offer. Here are some of the University at Buffalo School of Law’s top things to remember when you virtually meet for law fairs this season.
| 1. Treat it like an in-person event |
| 2. Avoid distractions |
| 3. Make a list of schools and questions |
| 4. Manage your time wisely |
| 5. Download recorded sessions and digital resources |
1. Treat it like an in-person event
We’ve all spent months getting accustomed to virtual meetings, classes and other calls but it helps to remember to treat virtual law fairs like they’re still in person. Some fairs will have both chat and video options, though it’s to your advantage to use video if you can. It leaves a more lasting impression and helps put a face to a name.
2. Avoid distractions
Block off the appropriate amount of time on your calendar and try to find a quiet place to log in so you can minimize distractions. Make sure your user name/registration ID and email are spelled correctly for follow up communications.
Also, don’t forget to also look the part—dress shirt over sweatshirt!
3. Make a list of schools and questions
Great planning is the key to getting great information, so it’s in your best interest to plan ahead. Make a list ranking your schools in order of importance so you can keep an eye on the clock and move from school to school throughout the fair.
Also write down your questions ahead of time. Do a little background homework on the school(s) you’re interested in so you can be ready during allotted question periods. A lot of virtual fairs will have specific timeslots available for students to ask follow up questions and discuss matters in more detail.
4. Manage your time wisely
Be aware that school timeslots may be short to ensure everyone has a chance to speak with the presenter or admissions person. If you can’t get the chance to speak, collect pertinent contact information and move on to the next school to ensure you’re managing your time wisely.
5. Download recorded sessions and digital resources
Did you miss a session due to schedule conflicts? Want to review something in more detail? Still have a lingering question? See if the school or fair host will be recording their session(s) and offering supplemental material. Many virtual law fairs will have recordings and other digital resources to accompany sessions, making sure all students can access as much information as possible.
Final thoughts
With careful planning and a little bit of prep work, virtual fairs can be a great way to see many schools and collect a lot of information in a short period of time. Just remember this is a first for everyone and even the recruiters will be adjusting as they learn to recruit digitally. Schools are likely to incorporate virtual events into their recruitment plans in the future—given the benefits that come with this platform—so it makes sense to get comfortable with the format!
Check out our events calendar to see where UB Law is headed next!
