Time Rules

It's Career Fair time for CAFNR students! Don't forget to stop by Reynolds Alumni Center on Wednesday, February 25 from noon to 4 p.m. First, check out this tips for making a great first impression:

Meeting folks in the professional world is often nerve-racking for me. Did you know the average attention span of a person is seven minutes long? It makes sense though—it’s almost as though we were trained for this attention span. Commercials on television happen every seven to eight minutes, and we tend to take advantage of the mental break. This short time frame can make a person even more nervous when meeting someone.

While at AFA (Agriculture Future of America) last November, I learned some great Time Rules from one of our speakers. Here is the ways we learned to make a lasting impression in regards to time, whether it is an interview or a longer presentation:

1. 3 seconds—how long you have to make a first impression. Instinctive smiles, firm handshakes, and the initial presentation is what makes up a first impression.


2. 30 seconds—how long you have to get ‘em or lose ‘em. After the first impression, the “elevator speech” has to be captivating and enthrall the listener. Otherwise, they’re gone.


3. 7 minutes—average attention span. After the first seven minutes, it is up to you to keep interviewer or whoever listening.


4. 30 minutes—when presenting, it is time to get the audience some physical movement. Any more sitting after a half hour and they will be bored.


5. 90 minutes—mental breaktime. Change the topic, change the way of presenting, or just give the audience a break.

Although none of us are perfect, I now try to take these things into consideration when talking to anyone. Everyone says I love to talk, and now I can talk smart with these Time Rules.

For any kind of help with interviews, professional presentations, or any other speaking engagements, CAFNR Career Services is there for you! Just contact Stephanie Chipman for an appointment.

-Charlotte Jackson
Sophomore, Agricultural Education