Do Your Research
When you are preparing to interview for a teaching position, it is always best practice to conduct research on the school you are interviewing with. School teams want to know that you are interested in their school and not just the job. It is important to be familiar with their core values, beliefs, and systems.
Make comments that refer to what you have learned about the school when answering the questions. Let the team know what excites you about having the opportunity to work with them and what you will bring to the table to add to their school culture. Some interview teams use a rubric to determine the best candidate. You are sure to earn points for taking the time to learn about the school.
Be Ready to Discuss Your Teaching Philosophy and Experience
Your philosophy of teaching defines who you are and what you believe as an educator. A great deal can be learned about a candidate by listening to their teaching philosophy. Interview teams want to know that your values are in sync with theirs. Therefore, you should be prepared to share your philosophy concisely by way of an elevator speech. You can almost be sure this question or some form of this question will be asked so be prepared to share this information briefly but comprehensively.
Your experience is also a valuable piece to share during the interview. This information will be listed in your resume, but it is important to express your experience and how it has prepared you to successfully execute the position at hand. No matter the amount of experience you have, you should highlight the successes in your career. It may seem awkward to brag about yourself, but during an interview it is not called bragging, it is called marketing yourself.
Come Prepared
There are essential items to bring along with you on interview day. These items do require preparation. The most common item is the resume. You may have previously given this to your interviewer, but you should have several copies of it on hand so you can give each interview team member one upon arrival. Also, a portfolio is great documentation of your past experiences, things you have accomplished and are proud of. The portfolio should be organized and easy to follow. Offer it to the team members to view and be prepared to answer any questions they may have.
Lastly, often times you will be asked if you have any questions. The questions you ask will convey to the team what is most important to you. In additional to your most important questions, prepare questions about the school culture and team building. At the end of the day, relationships are going to be your foundation.
Rehearse Beforehand
Rehearsing prior to an interview will prepare you to better communicate your responses. There are lists of commonly asked questions available online. Some questions are more difficult than others. Being prepared to fluently express your thoughts will put you at ease and will allow the team to see how professional you are. Good teachers study their craft. It is no different for an interview.
One of the toughest questions is “What is your area of improvement, or name something that is a challenge for you and why”. You want to answer this question in a way that is honest but does not make you seem to be unfit for the position. Practice responding to this in a way that shows the team you aren’t perfect, you realize where you can grow professionally, and tell them how you are already working in that area.
Ask a friend or family member to assist you in simulating the interview. Write down all the things you are to remember to do. Remember that your interview begins as soon as you enter the building. Arrive early so you can settle yourself prior to the start of the interview. You should kindly greet the front office staff, custodians, and any other faculty member you encounter while waiting. Shake the hands of all those on the interview team and look them in their eyes to greet them. Keep a smile on your face as much as possible to demonstrate your positivity.
Determine Why You’re a Good Fit for the Position and School
During an interview, you only have a short amount of time to show the team who you really are and why you should be their top choice. It is imperative that you market yourself. You cannot hold back or be modest. You must express how your philosophy aligns with theirs, how your past experiences will add value to their school, and explain the things you are prepared to do if hired. Share things that you have done that went above and beyond the call of duty. Discuss your passion for children, your WHY, and pull their heartstrings. These connections will make you unforgettable.
Be Aware of Your Body Language and Presentation
Body language is just as loud as verbal language. You want to always have good posture, have a smile on your face, stay focused, and look in the eyes of the person who asked you the question as you answer. Project your voice so everyone can understand you. Make sure your cell phone is off so it doesn’t ring and distract you.
You should also show your personality. It is ok to share something personal about yourself. This helps the team better understand who you are. You also show your personality through your attire. It speaks volumes of your professionalism when you are dressed appropriately. Appropriate dress is business casual. This includes dresses, slacks, knee length skirts, tucked in button-up blouses or shirts, dress shoes, and minimal jewelry or accessories. Even if the interview team is dressed down, you want to make the best first impression so don’t feel uncomfortable or overdressed.
Thank Your Interviewer
When the interview is coming to a close and you are giving your last remarks, it is vital to thank the team for giving you the opportunity to meet them. Let them know you appreciate their time and enjoyed getting to know more about the school and the team. It is appropriate to ask when they will be making a decision or when will you hear from them.
You should also share your feelings of gratitude in an email or mail a thank you card within the next day or two. This gesture will confirm your appreciation and display your professionalism.
