If students and graduates can't make it to the expo, take the expo to them: that's the idea behind the Institute's support of two exciting online virtual career expos.

As every employer knows, finding the right people is half the battle, which is why career expos are such a good option, attracting the brightest and best to come and meet face to face.

But what if they can't make it - it's too far away, they don't have time, or they can't afford to travel? You don't want to miss out in the 'Battle for talent'.

That's why virtual expos are such a good idea: a traditional expo, but online.

A virtual expo is just like real-world expos. There are exhibitors and stands, supporting material to pick up, a chance to connect, and sponsors of key events.

The only difference is, they use the online environment that's so popular and convenient for the students and graduates of today.

That means a chance to reach a wider audience, plus the bonus of no travel costs for exhibitor staff, or having to lose them from the office for days at a time.

This year, the Institute is involved with two great virtual expos: the Virtual Careers Expo, and the Virtual Careers Fair.

The Virtual Careers Expo is just what it says: a careers and employment skills expo, in the virtual world.

This innovative site creates 3D stands for exhibitors, allowing visitors to gather information, download brochures, watch videos, contact the exhibitor and enjoy a better understanding of the organisation exhibiting.

Virtual Careers Expo is open for business all day, every day - round the clock. It’s free to visit, and becoming a member allows visitors to save their favourite stands, enter competitions and receive the latest news.

The Institute is currently building a virtual stand to go on the site, providing students with a fun and interactive way to learn about Chartered Accounting.

The Institute is also a sponsor of the Virtual Careers Fair, held from Monday, 23 March 2009 till Thursday, 9 April 2009.

Virtual Careers Fair 2009 lets tertiary students, graduates and graduate employers connect from anywhere in Australia and New Zealand.

From 23-27 March, students can preview the site and pre-plan their visits during the active phase of the fair (30 March-9 April).

The Institute is hosting a virtual chat session for students on Thursday, 2 April from 11am-12 noon, so we can answer all their questions about a career as a Chartered Accountant, in real time.

You’ll find more information in the employer profile or watch a video, with Chartered Accountants giving you their insights about the profession.

These virtual career expos are just one of the initiatives by our National Careers Marketing Team, aimed at attracting the next generation of Chartered Accountants.

Watch this space as we continue to develop new ways to ensure that Chartered Accounting is top of the list for career choices.