How to Get a Teaching Job

Teachers are very special people. When you make the decision to become a teacher, chances are you know the dynamics of the position, including workload required, classroom management, meetings with staff and parents/guardians, etc. Teaching is not the easiest job out there, but it certainly is one of the most rewarding ones you'll ever find. So, how do you go about getting a teaching job?

Creating a Spectacular Resume

The first step to getting a teaching job is to put together a resume that captures who you are and the experiences that you have with the field. If you are just recently graduated from college, you should be sure to include all of the teaching internships that you completed in detail. If you are searching for a new position with teaching experience under your belt, you should include where you taught, for how long you taught, and the grade level(s) that you are experienced in working with. Your resume is your foot into the door, so it has to be accurate and stand apart from the crowd.

You can find more information on how to write a good resume at Teacher Employment Materials Generators

Finding Job Openings

Job searching can be daunting. There are many positions available for teachers, but finding the one that is right for you can be challenging. The first two places you might consider for finding job openings will be your local newspaper and metropolitan newspaper. The best time to search your metropolitan newspaper is on Sundays when most jobs are listed. You may find some during the week, though, so it is worth buying extra papers while you are job hunting.

Many schools post ads only because they are required by law, in some states. In many cases it is after the fact. For instance, my current position that I was hired for 12 years ago was advertised 3 days after I already accepted the position. With this is mind, one of the best things to do is to get your resume on file with all of the school district you could see yourself working at. Grab a phone book or Google the school, look up their physical addresses. Start cranking out your resume to their Human Resources Department. This will cause many an unexpected phone call, so be careful when you answer the phone.

The Internet has made it increasingly easier for teachers to find jobs. There are websites specifically geared for job searchers in the teaching profession, such as:

Some sites on the Internet will require a membership fee in order to use the job search feature, so be aware of this, if you don't want to pay to find a job. If you plan to stay local, most of these sites will not provide you with lists of teaching jobs close to your home.

Getting Ready for the Interview

Being prepared for an interview is of utmost importance. Chances are there are several people trying to obtain the same job that you are wanting. You have to remain calm and focused on your interview. Dress professionally. Schools do not want to hire trendy teachers; they want professional teachers who will be an example to the students.

Go over possible interview questions with a spouse or friend to practice your answers. Example questions might include:

  • Why should we hire you?
  • What are your qualifications?
  • What would your classroom be like?
  • How would you handle a disruptive student?
  • What makes you the best candidate for the position?
  • How would you evaluate your own teaching performance?
  • What ways would you implement school policies in the classroom?

It is a good idea to research your perspective school. Find out what their philosophies are and what their mission statement means. Learn about their reading programs and extracurricular activities. You can accomplish this by using the Internet and obtaining a copy of the school's handbook. Knowledge is power!

What to do after the Interview

When the interview is over you will want to ask the principal when he plans on making a final decision. This gives you an idea of where you are in the interviewing process. You don't want to follow-up too quickly, when you know that you were the first, second, or third person interviewed.

Be sure to follow-up in the appropriate amount of time. This shows the principal that you are eager to work at the school, and that you regard the position of teaching highly. Just be sure to maintain your professionalism, as you don't want to look desperate for the position.

When following up on your interview, make sure you have the proper names of the people you spoke with during the interview. It is okay for you to bring a compact notebook to the interview so you can take notes.

Consider sending the principal a thank you letter promptly after your interview. Any chance you have to show that you are conscientious teacher is to your advantage. The letter should be sent no more than two days after the interview.

Make sure that anyone you listed as a reference on your application is aware that they might get a phone call. Remember to be patient, as an interview process can take a while. Meanwhile, go on other interviews as well. Don't put all your eggs in one basket.

Good luck!