From this section on professional readiness, I learned that preparation starts before the conversation even begins, the environment (physical or virtual), my own presence, and how well I read the student in front of me all shape trust before a single word about programs is said.
I plan to apply this by prepping my space and tech ahead of calls, staying attentive to shifts in a student's tone or engagement rather than sticking to a script, and pausing to check in when I sense hesitation instead of pushing forward. Curious how others are building in that "pause and reassess" habit in real time, still working on making it feel natural rather than forced.
