There are several steps to achieve a teaching position — answering questions with confidence, accuracy, and passion. And, of course, ending a teacher job interview successfully is critical.
When you get chosen, this shows that an employer is interested in you, and you may have some quality or skill they need. They will then require you to come in person to clarify key points regarding your resume and the position.
In other words, when you reach the interview step, you are close to securing the job; but there are other people shortlisted too. So, it now boils down to how you can effectively prove you are better than the others; and you have to do this quickly.
Starting the interview on a positive note is important, but closing it on an electrifying note is even more important. The following 10 steps will show you how to close a teacher job interview in a way that will help you land the teaching position.
1. Emphasize the Reason Why You Are Applying
Make it very clear why you are applying for the teaching job and customize your responses to fit the school and its goals.
2. Make Relevant Claims
State how you can help the school fulfill its mission and vision with your own ideas and how your agenda can fit theirs. You can only do this if you have researched and studied the details of the institution beforehand.
3. Ask Insightful Questions
Be careful not to sound ill-informed or ask questions of items you could have readily gotten off their website or other such sources. Ask questions relevant to the daily activities of the position, like disciplining the students or extracurricular activities, etc. This will show your interest, your capabilities, and your motivation.
4. Request for More Questions from the Panel
Ensure they have exhausted all possible questions for you by asking if they have any more questions for you. This shows you know what you are doing and are fully prepared for them and will ensure you will leave the interview with your interviewers having all the information they need to make an informed decision.
5. Never Talk About Money or Remuneration
This is not the time to discuss wages and benefits; you can do that when you have a concrete job offer. For now, limit the discussion to how you can be of help.
6. Inquire About the Competition
There is no harm in finding out how many people you are up against. This will help you to strategize better to land the job. Don’t give any indication that the other job candidates are a threat to you.
7. Ask What Follows Next
Be sure to find out what the next step is before leaving. Find out who should contact whom and when they will expect to have made a decision. Ask in a very courteous manner. Bring your list of references to the interview with you.
8. Demonstrate Niceties
A firm handshake with all the members of the panel shows a lot of confidence. Look them in the eyes, smile, and offer a hand to all, one after the other, thanking them for meeting with you.
9. Do Not Leave in a Hurry
In a job interview, you are expected to be fully prepared. Don’t rush through it because you have other appointments; don’t get up from your chair until you are excused.
10. Pack Your Stuff Nicely
Don’t show any sign of nervousness. Take your time and pack all your things. Do it gently and in an organized manner. It commands some respect and shows your confidence and ease.
Do you have any other tips you’ve used to secure a bombshell interview? Comment and share your ideas below!
If you need professional help with your next job interview, please don’t hesitate to contact Candace via email or call toll-free at 1-877 738-8052.
