Ensuring Personal Safety When Attending an Interview

By Rebecca Graffam, Peer Advisor 

Most people do not think about safety issues in relation to job interviews, however, sometimes negative things happen that can be avoided with additional safety precautions.  Although this is not a major issue for most interviews, as a student living in the large city of Miami, I have found it is important to be hyper-vigilant and always trust my instincts. 

Therefore, I have compiled a list of precautions an interviewee can take in order to avoid a difficult or dangerous situation.

1.  Location

Find out where the interview will be held ahead of time.  You should avoid having interviews in a remote place unless you know the person well or can be with a group.  You can request that the interview take place in a public or official setting.  Additionally, there should be friends and/or family members that know where you will be going and for approximately how long.   

2.  Timing

Make sure the timing of your interview is not out of place for the job.  It is probably not a good idea to attend an interview at 9 PM for a receptionist daytime position.  If you do happen to be in a situation that you have to attend a nighttime interview, make sure to bring along a friend.  They could wait in the car or the lobby but make sure there is someone else there to help ensure safety.  

3.  Website

Take time to visit the firm’s website prior to the interview.  Though you may have done this in your interview preparation research, it is important to become familiar with the trustworthiness of the company and make sure nothing is out of place.  You can generally tell a sketchy website from an official one and this simple step can help save you from a compromising situation.

4.  Formality

An interview has the potential to be fun and comfortable, but not to the point at which you feel it is too informal or creepy.  If the interviewer starts asking inappropriate suggestions or suggests anything contrary to what you feel is suitable, inform the interviewer that you are leaving and go as quickly as possible.  Let the firm know of the incident as soon as you are in a safe place.

Stay safe University of Miami!

Happy Halloween!

By Maura Gergerich, Toppel Peer Advisor

I hope that each and every one of you has a good Halloween this year! On campus and off, Halloween is always a great day to go out and have some fun in your crazy costumes. Although, in the midst of the madness, there are certain  things that you should make sure you and your friends keep in mind to stay safe. 

Travel in groups

Don’t go wandering off alone. It may seem obvious but keep your friends close by and make sure your phone is fully charged so you can find help if you get separated. You are much more of a target if you don’t have a group to stick with.

Make sure you know what you’re drinking!

I promise you wont seem paranoid if you make sure you watch your drinks being poured. Even once it is in your hand make sure you pay attention. In crowded places like the grove it is so easy for something to get slipped into a drink when you’re not looking. With this in mind, make sure you have transportation planned before you set out. I know everyone likes to go out and have a good time, but make sure you have a designated DD or cash if you plan on taking cabs.

Watch out for others

If you see someone while you're out and about, don’t be afraid to be a good Samaritan and ask if they need help. You would want someone to do the same for you if you had gotten yourself into a sticky situation. If you see some sort of sketchy activity occurring or see someone lost and distressed, even if you don’t feel like being the hero you can always find someone who is able to lend a helping hand.

Monitor your social media

Keep in mind that what you post online can and will affect your future. We all know costumes can get a bit risque in a college environment. Whenever you’re about to post something, stop and  think about how you’d feel if your employer were to see it. When in doubt, don’t post something. I know it’s super cliche but it’s better to be safe than sorry. You wouldn’t want to risk losing a job opportunity because of a few crazy pictures. All in all just make smart decisions so you are able to make the most of your night!