Nerves on edge. Senses heightened. Brain blank.
I log in to my computer, sign-in to Handshake and click on the “join video” button. I sit in the one-on-one session alone.
I practice my speech, what they should know about me and what I want to know about them. I’m trying to make a connection to secure my future.
As the employer logs in, everything I thought I knew went out the window. I don’t know anything about myself, much less the company.
Hopefully, my voice doesn’t tremble. Thankful I remembered to bring water to revive my mind and clear my dry throat.
I showed up to the virtual session a few minutes early, which earns extra points for the professionalism that no one is counting.
I came prepared though my brain told me otherwise. I had my resume reviewed and edited beforehand. I also learned how to dress professionally, what my computer screen placement should be and other things that would help me look like I put some time and effort into the meeting.
Going to a career fair is like being at a show and tell. You dress up nicely and talk about what you can bring to the table and what can be improved on about yourself.
The first time I attended a Career Fair at the University of Idaho was Fall 2020. I’ve yet to attend an in-person version.
I miss human interaction for important events like career fairs. It’s not the same talking to someone face-to-face as it is talking to them through a computer screen.
Issues such as buffering and bad internet connection on either end can occur. This causes you to lose time talking to them while both parties miss critical information.
You can read people in-person easier by watching their eyes and body language. You can also express yourself more. It’s harder to truly see someone’s personality on a small screen.
I enjoy talking with potential employers that make me feel comfortable and are friendly. It helps me collect my thoughts and articulate them clearly.
I don’t like talking about myself. I prefer to hear about other people and get to know them.
I need to survive in this world and knowing what I can and can’t do is highly important for my future. It’s good to be open and honest with yourself and your employers.
You want to be willing to learn something you aren’t familiar with or slightly familiar with.
Don’t sell yourself short on your skills but don’t exaggerate your skills.
Remember, employers are people too. They want to help you get a job if you’re willing to be flexible and learn and have skills that work with their company.
Kim Stager can be reached at arg-opinion@uidaho.edu or on Twitter @journalismgoals