The person who gets the job may not necessarily be the most qualified; he or she may simply be the one who knows HOW to get a job. You see successful interviewing is a skill or an art. Preparation is the key!

If I could give you one word of advice, it would be, "Be yourself." This is never more important than in the job hunting process. Examine your best attributes and think about HOW to sell yourself to the school district.

Research the school district and the school. I can't stress this enough. Find out as much as possible about their educational philosophy, key personnel (Principal, Secretary, Curriculum Development Supervisor, Superintendent, what current problems exist, any new curriculum initiatives, are parents involved, etc. If you can show the school that you can help solve their problems, you are that much closer to getting hired.

You may think some of these tips below are very basic, but it is amazing how many important details job seekers fail to use.

  • Pinpoint your weaknesses and work diligently to improve your technique.
  • Dress for success. Make a favorable first impression. Don't underestimate the importance of this.
  • Shine your shoes, as many candidates forget to do so.
  • Shake hands firmly and don't take a seat until asked.
  • Don't slouch, and always maintain eye contact with the interviewer(s).
  • Bring at least three copies of your professionally prepared resume, as well as a list of references on matching letterhead.
  • Speak in a firm, confident voice and always present a positive attitude. Make sure you show passion for teaching and children.
  • Maintain a professional image before, during, and after the interview.
  • Relax and be yourself, but don't forget that the person sitting on the other side of the desk could be your future supervisor.
  • Allow the interviewer to describe the position and its responsibilities early in the interview. Then you can apply your accomplishments specifically to that position and the needs of the district. For example, they may indicate there is a problem with low reading scores. So address this issue when you speak about your strengths.
  • Ask relevant questions during the interview. Try to establish a two-way communication - this will help to develop a rapport with the interviewer(s).
  • Understand that nervousness is normal, so prepare for it and maintain a calm appearance.
  • Don't bad mouth your present or former supervisor or school. Limit your comments to what is absolutely necessary.
  • Always send a thank-you and follow-up letter - an important step in the job search process.

These interview tips can help you, but we recommend that you use our interview coaching service to truly see the results of being thoroughly prepared. If you require more information or have any questions - Contact Candace at A+ Resumes for Teachers by clicking here or call toll-free 1-877-738-8052.

Bookmark and Share

Bach to Education Interview Tips 101

Review our resume prices & services

Review our resume and cover letter samples here.

Success Stories

"Hi Candace!!!

It's taken quite a while but I'm happy to say I was offered the position at XXX school district and will be starting in a couple of weeks.

Thank you again for all of your help. During my final interview I was asked how I prepared for my interview and I was happy to say that I had your assistance as an Interview Coach. I have also recommended you to a few of my friends because you were so helpful.

Thanks again,"

D. S.

"Hi Candace,

I wanted to follow up with you. Since the Spring, I have secured a job in an amazing district exactly where I wanted to be. I am a Kindergarten teacher and cannot wait to begin my career as an educator. I know your hard work on both my resume and cover letter was instrumental in securing my job. I received so many compliments from administrators telling me how my resume was the best they had ever seen. That truly helped me stand out from the pack. Thanks a million!

Sincerely,"

S.C.

***More Success Stories***

Click Here to Partner with us for a perfect fit in advancing your education career

Sign up here to receive our free newsletter. A+ Career Curriculum is full of education career related tips and advice delivered to your email box bi-weekly.

Looking forward to working with you in the future,

Candace Signature 

Candace Davies ACCC, CRW, CIC, CPRW, CEIP, CECC
Find out more about Candace here.