First virtual job fair planned for Bradenton-Sarasota area. It could become a monthly event
CareerSource Suncoast has announced it will host its first virtual job fair, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Aug. 18, as a way to match employers with job seekers during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“We’re really excited to step into the world of virtual job fairs and hope they will be just as successful or even more successful than in-person events. After we get our feet wet with this first event, we hope to hold virtual job fairs on a monthly basis,” said Jen Zak, communications director for CareerSource Suncoast.
More than 50 employers from Manatee and Sarasota counties will be available through the day to meet with job seekers via text chat. Some may also have video capabilities. A webcam is not required to participate.
Job seekers may attend via computer, tablet or smartphone with Chrome, Safari or Firefox. Interactions will be through text-chatting but some employers may have video capability as well.
Job seekers may register for free at bit.ly/virtualjobfair0818. Job seekers must also be registered with employflorida.com to participate in this event, and must upload a PDF resume when initially registering.
Employers must also be registered with Employ Florida and have at least one active job opening.
Employers include Adecco, Aviva, Babe’s Plumbing, Boys and Girls Club of Manatee County, MCR Health, MyUS, Sarasota County Government, Sarasota Memorial Hospital, Taylor Made, Teakdecking Systems and more. Positions range from entry-level to professional.
Anyone without access to a computer or internet, may call CareerSource Suncoast at 941-358-4200 and make an appointment to use a computer during the job fair.
“We want to make sure everyone who wants to attend has the ability to do so,” Zak said.
Manatee County has 32,972 COVID-19 related initial jobless claims, according to the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity. Accommodations and food service are the hardest hit sector with 3,795 claims, followed by retail trade with 3,795 claims.
CareerSource Suncoast is a nonprofit dedicated to providing education and tools to connect employers with skilled talent. Its mission is to recruit, train and retain talent for employers on the Suncoast.
For more details and information on how to register as a career seeker or an employer, visit careersourcesuncoast.com/events
