Future Educator? Current Educator? Looking for some interview tips for your upcoming interview? I had the opportunity to sit on a panel for interview candidates this year. After sitting on the panel, I came up with 6 simple tips to help ease your interview process.
Tip #1 – Learn the Vocabulary
Learn the buzzwords of your potential employer. Study the school’s website AND the district’s to and see what their prime focus is for the previous and upcoming year.
Examples: Are they a STEM school? 1:1 technology school? Are they doing PBL? What is their PBIS? Flexible seating? Which do they use for their reading/math program? Are they a push in (inclusion school) or pull out/small group approach? If you don’t know the answer to these questions, these are good to ask in your interview!
Tip #2 – Smile
I know this can seem a little silly but when you’re nervous sometimes you forget to do that. Smiling also relaxes you and the interviewer. Even if you have to make a mental note to do it haha.
Tip #3 – Be Real…Be Authentic
This is where you can “toot your own horn” and show your personality!! I am not saying turn the tables and make it ALL about you! Have your personality shine, share what makes you unique, why are you the right fit for this job!
Tip #4 – Ask Questions
It’s good to ask a few questions about the school, the morale, the extracurricular activities etc. However keep it to between two and three questions. I’ll give you an example. During the interview process that I was sitting on a candidate asked eight questions. That was a bit extreme for me. Write down your top few questions because many of them could be answered in the interview process!
EXAMPLES: What is a typical classroom size? What committees do you offer that I can join? What is your PBIS system? Are you a 1:1 technology school?
Tip #5 – Dress Professionally
I know all circumstances this is not possible, but dress professionally. Maybe that means wearing a dress, a suit, a shirt and tie, but come off as professional. Don’t look like you just came out of the gym or running errands in your most comfy T-shirt and yoga pants. I know this seems like a no brainer, but I have seen teachers interview in a t-shirt.
Tip #6 – Long answers, no thanks
Keep your answers short. Not 3 word answers, but do not drag your answer on and on. One interview I sat in had a candidate answer a question for 9 minutes!!! Honestly, after a few minutes I had to actively not tune out. Giving examples, sharing stories are GREAT! Just, don’t drag them on and on!
Wishing you the best of luck on all your future interviews!
Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest | Teachers Pay Teachers | Tiktok | Amazon
