Interviewing and attending networking events can get tricky when you have a common cold but get more complicated with the severity of the current outbreak of coronavirus (COVID-19). Here are some tips to help you stay healthy but still make a good impression.
- Have a personal no-handshake policy.
Simply state that, for health reasons you are practicing a no-handshake policy. You can still be warm and welcoming and make a great impression even if you can’t shake hands. Use your expressions, eyes, and words to help convey your enthusiasm for the opportunity to meet and network/interview. We’ve heard from some employers that companies are instituting no-handshake policies so it’s not out of the realm of understanding for those interacting with you during such events. - Use hand sanitizer.
Several offices (including ours!) have hand sanitizer in check-in areas for everyone to use. If you see hand sanitizer in a check-in areas or in offices USE IT! - Don’t go if you are sick.
If you are sick or experiencing symptoms call the employer/recruiter/event point person as soon as possible and let them know of your situation. Offer to be available at the same time as scheduled for a phone or video interview. This shows your commitment to both health and wellness of yourself and others as well as the position. The career center has rooms you can reserve for a quiet professional spot to conduct a phone or video interview as well as equipment you can use for both/either. Just contact our office if you want to reserve a space.
Please be extra vigilant in practicing good health habits to reduce the risk of coronavirus transmission during this time.
Here are other important precautions to take on a regular basis:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol if soap and water are not available.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- If you are sick, avoid crowded spaces, including classes and public events.
- Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
Returning to campus
If you believe you may have been exposed to someone with COVID-19 (either during break, interviewing, or networking) or who are experiencing symptoms (fever, coughing and shortness of breath) you should refrain from going to classes or events and contact Bucknell Student Health at 570-577-1401. Do not go to Student Health. A staff member will ask you screening questions to determine whether testing is necessary.
For additional medical information, please refer to these FAQs prepared by Student Health.
Additional information
Please refer to this coronavirus update page, which the University’s coronavirus working group is updating frequently. Additional questions regarding COVID-19 may be sent to coronavirus@bucknell.edu. We appreciate your patience as we strive to provide timely and accurate information during this rapidly changing and unprecedented situation.