Interview Tips for a Teaching Job
One of the greatest fallacies in the world is that anyone can teach. That is wrong on so many levels. With thirty-six years of teaching behind me, I think I have seen everything from teachers who are appalled at how hard teaching can be to teachers who live their lives for their students. They work harder than anyone so that their students can excel. Most principals and department heads use the interview process to weed out the rejects. If you are that dedicated teacher, I am going to give you some interview tips for a teaching job so that you will get the job you want because you deserve the help.
If you are fresh out of college with a Master’s Degree or a Bachelor’s Degree, you are suddenly faced with the interview process. It’s scary and can be devastating. With some proper preparation, the process can become easier. Even with a shortage of teachers, you still must stand out from the crowd.
After the initial interview is set up, you should practice your interviewing as much as possible. Get a partner and role play. Make up a set of questions that you think the interview panel will ask you. With a few tips, you should have some idea of what the panel will ask. One very general question is always why you want to teach at our school. If you have done your research, you know the strengths and weaknesses of the school. Explain why you would be honored to work at the school becauseÖIf there is a weakness, say that you hope very much to help withÖ They will be impressed with your initiative.
More than likely there will be a department head in your subject matter if you are interviewing for a high school job. She will ask you your areas of expertise. If you are strong in Algebra or American Literature or World History, explain why you love the subject. Depending on the state if there is a licensing test, your having already passed it is always a big plus. If you have not passed the test, explain when you are taking it again. If you are applying for an English job, you might be asked what your favorite book is. Be ready to explain why the book is so great.
Be sure to dress professionally. Wear a suit or nice dress to the interview. Nice shoes, few accessories, and a moderate hair style are also good touches. If you are really young, try to dress older without looking like you are in your mother’s clothes.
One question principals of high schools always ask is if you would be interested in sponsoring an extra-curricular activity. Of course you are. If you say no, you are instantly not a team player and you probably won’t get the job. How do you think principals get teachers to do these jobs? They pick on the new hires. A few years of a club or cheerleaders and you can get out of the job by going back to school, getting married, or having a baby. Then the next new hire is open game.
Some of the most important interview tips for a teaching job are to present yourself as conservative, dedicated, and bright. You want to show that you love students and can’t wait to start teaching. Be alert and show your personality without being overly talkative. If you are shy, try to be extroverted for the interview. Good luck. We need good teachers.
