LANSING, MI — Job seekers don’t have to leave their house to take part in career fairs hosted by the state of Michigan.

The state is hosting a free virtual career fair from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on July 25 to connect job seekers with recruiters from businesses like Auto-Owners Insurance, Penske Truck Leasing and Quicken Loans.

It’s the third virtual job fair hosted this year by the Michigan Economic Development Corp.’s Pure Michigan Talent Connect, an online hub for career resources that Gov. Rick Snyder launched in December 2011.

A virtual health care fair in May attracted about eight large employers and 820 job seekers.

“We’ve gotten positive feedback about the format. Employers are really happy about the opportunity to sort of break down those regional and travel barriers to reach candidates and have been making some meaningful initial connections through the virtual environment that have led to some in-person interviews,” said Joe Quick, manager for talent acquisition at Michigan’s Workforce Development Agency.

Job seekers and employers can chat online or through video conference within the virtual job fair environment.

Quick recommended that job seekers research the participating companies beforehand in order to prepare more meaningful questions. He also advised them to dress professionally in case they want to use the video chat.

At least 16 employers are scheduled to participate in the business career fair on July 25. Another general career fair will be held on Sept. 26.

Job seekers can find out more information and register online.