Top Ten Tips for Interviewees
- Make sure you know as much as possible about the school district. Pick up a brochure from the district office. They usually include information highlighting the philiosphy or special focus of each school.
- Learn about the school and its philosophy. Make sure it matches yours.
- If you are unfamiliar with the school, drive around the surrounding neighborhood and community to help you get familiar. See tip #1.
- Practice for interviews either by writing out answers to possible interview questions or having other teacher friends role-play the interview. Better yet, do both.
- Give examples whenever possible.
- Be enthusiastic and positive. Smile, even though you are as nervous as all get out.
- Arrive dressed as a teacher on an important day, not spirit day.
- Be prepared. Bring a one-page resume with letters of recommendations attached, with phone numbers in an obvious location. The letters should be from those who have observed you teach in the classroom.
- If you don't know the answer to a question you can say, "That is something I will have to give more thought (or research). I'm so glad you brought it to my attention." You should also allow yourself some think time to organize your thoughts before answering. Keep responses to the point, but give examples. If the interviewer wants elaboration he or she will ask for it.
- Write a note of thanks to the principal (and grade level team, if that is the case) for the interview. You can use the note to give a one-liner as to why you are the best candidate for the position or why you want to teach at ________ school. Consider investing in professional, simple stationery. Save the "teacher" stationery for your classroom. After all this preparation, you surely will end up with a classroom of your own.
