Finding and Getting that Teaching Position

In these times of a rough economy, finding a teaching position is probably going to be tougher, so you have to work a little extra, and go the extra mile to secure that position. The jobs are there, but the competition may be increased, so you have to stand out from the others, and so we offer these tips.

Aggressively Keep an Eye Open

Teaching jobs can be found posted in a variety of places, like the school's site, the district's site, teacher newsgroups, online education job listing sites, etc. For your local area, it is a good idea to contact each school, and ask them where they most often first post their job opportunities. Compile and list, and though it can be time consuming, check those places listed on a daily basis to assure you do not miss the posting.

Know the Schools

As mentioned in my previous posts, knowing as many details about the school district you are applying to is an important step. The more knowlegde and interest you show about their particular area and situations, the mose attention you draw to yourself as the best candidate. Don't tell them you are applying just because you see they have a posting of an opening. Look for areas in their district that may be in need of help, and target your cover letter, resume and conversation to highlight how your skills would be beneficial in one of those areas. If you have previous experience that is relevant to the area of need, be sure to highlight that to show how your skills are needed and can be utilized to benefit the district as a whole.

If you have special skills, training, or experience outside of the normal teaching skills, like involvement in extra-curricular areas, or overseeing a special club or group in the past, those are good skills to highlights as extra skills you bring to the table above and beyond just those within the classroom. Any unique skills you may have, be sure to also highlight those. Anything that makes you and your skillset stand out from the rest, those are the things to focus on.


Look, Feel, and Act Comfortable and Professional

A teaching position is a public position. Hopefully you do not have a shy, quiet, or timid personality, as that is not a desirable trait in a role where you are in charge of others and frequently speaking to the "public" like you will in a classroom setting. When you go for your interview, be sure to dress professional, speak clearly, and portray both confidence and authority in your mannerism. Many times it is not just about the skills, experience, and knowledge, but about how you impress them also with how you handle yourself professionally.

Be prepared, shake all of the interview nervousness out of your system, and be sure to know your resume and skillsets intimately, so you can answer questions and have discussions in a clear, professional, and confident way. If you are prone to nervousness, then practice, practice, practice. Have someone go over your resume and ask questions, and get to where you feel confident and are prepared to answer anything about yourself in a confident manner.
 

Jeff McCormack resides in Virginia Beach, VA. where he works as a web designer by day. In his off time he is a husband, father, mail order book store manager, and musician. Aside from being a freelance writer for this Education Jobsite blog, he also seeks to assist in career choices and information by contributing to other Nexxt blog sites.