Deciding to go back to the classroom as a teacher can be daunting and challenging, considering that technology and teaching methods have changed at a phenomenal rate.
After leaving your job for a while, re-entering teaching will require some bold steps and a practical guide.
So how do you re-enter teaching?
Take the time to read these job search tips and strategies to get your career moving in the right direction.
Consult Friends in the Education Sector
Because teaching processes are constantly evolving, you will need first-hand information from a friend or colleague still practicing. If possible, set up a meeting with a few colleagues from your past school to see what has changed.
Consult Hiring Managers
Hiring managers in consultancy firms have valuable and up-to-date information on what will be required to get a job in the education field. You stand to hear the whole truth since they are not your friends and are unbiased.
Research Current Hiring Procedures
The hiring process in the education field is quite dynamic and changes with time. There will certainly be something new you will need to learn about and integrate into your job search. Go online and do a job search in education and you will be amazed at the process you may need to implement.
Upgrade Certifications if Needed
If you have been away from the education field for a while, you will need to update your teaching certifications. A few weeks of relating to education consultants and professionals will bring you up to speed. One or two upgraded professional certificates will give you a lift in your quest to land a teaching job.
Update and Revamp Resume
The next thing will be to update and polish your resume to present-day standards. There might be some things you will need to remove and definitely some to add. Rework your resume to look professional and impressive. Include relevant skills/strengths and accomplishments to target the teaching position you are seeking to secure. Include an impressive resume profile to grab the reader’s attention immediately.
Write a Cover Letter Showing Passion
While writing a brief cover letter, state the fact you have been out of the field for a while and the reason why; then describe the efforts you have put in to catch up and how you will blend in.
Start Job Searching
Where applicable, place your resume on online job search sites, school district, and social networking sites. Talk to people you feel can help; don’t stop hunting no matter what setbacks you may face initially. If you are unsure of how to choose the teaching position you want, do some research first.
Prepare for Interviews
Interviews may start coming fast, so you will want to be thoroughly prepared. Practice your responses to common interview questions to ensure your not caught off guard. Research the school and the school district to tailor your responses to interview questions to suit the school’s important issues and job. Wear something professional and bring all the right documents with you to give to the committee.
Old Experience Matters
Don’t let meeting younger and energetic teachers applying for the same job get you discouraged. Let your teaching experience and accomplishments be your focal point, and use them to your advantage. Learn how to incorporate qualities, skills, and strengths correctly into your new teaching resume.
Build Confidence
Be determined to get the job and work towards it. Refrain from considering yourself as unfit or outdated and keep a positive attitude; it may take a little longer, but you’ll certainly get a job in the education field.
