Newsletter #9

Summer Safety Tips

Doesn’t it feel like summer just sprung overnight?  Many of us are starting to get that much needed vitamin D we were missing this winter, but staying safe and healthy should be a top priority.

Here are some tips to help you stay safe and cool this summer:

  • Protect yourself from the sun by wearing sunblock, hat, sunglasses and keeping hydrated. Did you know drinking alcohol or caffeine before outdoor activities can cause dehydration?
  • Ensure you wear the appropriate protective equipment when enjoying outdoor activities, such as a helmet, reflective wear at night, or a life jacket.
  • If you have an opportunity to enjoy one of Ontario’s beautiful lakes or hop into a pool this summer, ensure you are safe. Do you have a buddy with you? Do you know the water? The Canadian Red Cross has many water safety tips at our fingertips. Check them out here.
  • As lovely as the sun is, we all know it comes with its downfalls… like the pests. Ticks, Mosquitos, and bees, are back with a vengeance and we need to protect ourselves. The Government of Ontario has tons of information on how to protect yourself, from covering up to bug spray. More information can be seen on the CDC website.
  • Remember you can access free mental health resources and supports at AbilitiCBT.
  • Continue to follow the guidelines of public health on all healthcare related items including COVID-19.

 

#ThisisOurShot Campaign

Questions about the COVID-19 vaccine? Roberta Bondar has something to say, why it’s important to her and what she wants you to know.  Check out the #ThisisOurShot campaign here.

Get all the facts about COVID-19 and the vaccine from Peterborough Public Health.

Spotlight Awards

Remember to join your colleagues on June 3, 2021, to celebrate this year’s Spotlight award recipients and nominees.

We look forward to celebrating with you, here, on June 3 at 3pm.

 

EDI Council Update

The Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) Council has been meeting bi-weekly to develop an action plan to further our vision of a welcoming place for all. This month, the Council has:

  • created 5 sub-committees to advance EDI work in these areas:
    – Data Collection and Reporting
    – Policy Development
    – Training and Professional Development
    – Special Events
    – Advocacy
  • the Data Collection and Reporting Committee is currently analyzing anonymous data from the EDI Survey and will have some initial recommendations in June. A full report is expected in the Fall. The Council appreciates the enthusiastic response of employees to the EDI survey: 43% of employees participated and your feedback and enthusiasm for equity, diversity and inclusion is appreciated.

To learn more about the EDI Council, visit https://department.flemingcollege.ca/edi/ or contact us at EDICouncil@flemingcollege.ca

Virtual Interview

Preparing for a virtual interview? Here are some tips to help you rock it!  They’re also valuable for meetings.

  • Check your technology and do a dry run before the interview. Ensure you download software required and that you have bandwidth.
  • Use a laptop or desktop if you can.  Mobile phones are fine if you don’t have a choice; just make sure it’s mounted in a stable place.
  • Make sure that your background is appropriate, even if it’s a blank wall.  You do have the option of using a virtual wall on Zoom and Webex.
  • Dress as you would for an in-person interview.
  • Find a quiet area.  Make sure there are no distractions (dogs, kids, phone alerts etc.)
  • Sit in a well-lit room with the light pointing at your face; having a light behind creates a shadow effect.
  • Look into the camera.  We tend to speak to the square with the person’s face, which is very natural, but creates the illusion of looking down, or sideways. Be aware of looking into the camera particularly if you’re using two screens and referring to one at an angle – you want to simulate “eye contact” with interviewers, rather than giving them an extended view of your profile.
  • Answer the questions as you would if you were in the same room.
  • Have a backup plan with a conference call.  The meeting hosts should provide this when scheduling the interview.
  • Avoid reading prepared remarks or answers.