Navigating the September Scaries: 7 Insights for Authenticity, Self-Care, and Success in On-Campus Recruitment

<insert best GoT trailer voice here>... September is coming!

Students, parents, teachers/faculty, career or experiential education professionals, and yes, early talent acquisition teams, are all no strangers to what I affectionately call "the September Scares".

For me, the "September Scaries" are an eerily familiar combination of anticipation, anxiousness, excitement, and wondering... with just a sprinkle of feeling overwhelmed.

As on-campus recruitment ramps up, it's important to equip ourselves with strategies that help to confront and manage these feelings head-on.

These 7 insights are things that I've added to my own “recruitment toolkit' over the years—lessons that have proven invaluable in navigating the September Scaries and teeing up success in the on-campus recruitment season!

Author's Note: While the content I'm about to share might be familiar to some of you, my intention with this piece is to offer affirmations, offer valuable reminders, or even serve as a framework that aligns with the intuitive practices you're already implementing. Enjoy!

1. Temper Nervousness through Preparedness: Feeling nervous before a presentation or career event is a shared experience. Preparation is your friend. Deepen your grasp of your key messages and content, ask clarifying questions about expectations in advance, practice your delivery, and remind yourself of your expertise. A deep breath and trust in your readiness can transform nervousness into an authentic connection. Remember, students and career centre staff might be a bit jittery too.

2. Embrace Authenticity: It's not just about sharing information; it's about painting a vivid picture of what it's like to be part of your organization. Be yourself, and let your interactions reflect this. Sharing real stories and experiences that convey the essence of working for your organization resonates deeply with student, new graduate, and early career candidates seeking a workplace that aligns with their values.

3. Forge Genuine Connections through Empathy: Every interaction is an opportunity to forge a meaningful connection. Listen attentively to students' aspirations and concerns. Respond by sharing your journey and tailoring your insights. Remember, it might be your hundredth time ‘sharing’, but it's their first-time ‘hearing’. By being present and assuming the role of a trusted advisor, your connections will extend well beyond the recruitment cycle.

4. Self-Care: The Backbone of Success: In the whirlwind of on-campus recruitment, self-care isn't just practical—it's essential. Carve out time for breaks and activities that rejuvenate your mind and spirit. Prioritizing yourself isn't selfish; it's an investment in presenting your best self. And don't hesitate to lean on your team and leaders when you need support. You're there for each other.

5. Navigate Ambiguity with Agility: Ambiguity doesn’t have to be a roadblock. The recruitment landscape is ever-evolving, and agility sets you apart. Rather than fearing the unknown, try to see it as an opportunity to get curious, experience and learn about 'new things', and, where needed, be creative. You might make mistakes. That's okay! Trust that you'll learn from them and continue to hone what you need to along the way.

6. Collaborate in Problem Solving: Challenges are inevitable. First, don't be too hard on yourself. You'll work it through. While having backup plans is helpful, your strength lies in how you approach challenges. Tap into the resources around you—fellow recruiters, career centre colleagues, leaders, and students—to brainstorm solutions.

7. Craft Your Impact: As the on-campus recruitment season unfolds, pause to reflect on what you'll leave behind. Consider what you want people to experience when they engage with you and your employer brand. Your impact extends beyond the immediate; it has the potential to shape the journeys and success of those you encounter.

Confronting the September Scaries is about developing your own unique blend of authenticity, self-care, and a willingness to trust the journey. I hope after reading this, you're feeling excited and ready to thrive this on-campus recruitment season!

It's a truly wonderful opportunity to guide students towards becoming the best candidates they can be and to help them understand what it means to launch their careers at your organization. I invite you to embrace the challenge, celebrate your awesomeness and own your impact. Happy recruiting!

Trevor Buttrum is an award-winning early talent recruitment and career education professional. He is the Executive Director of the Canadian Association of Career Educastors and Employers (CACEE) - a pan-Canadian network, association for professionals, and leading authority focused on the post-secondary to career transition.