Having a Focused Resume is the First Step to a New Job

Writing a focused resume is your first step to a new teaching job. Writing a compelling and unique resume will be the initial stage of your job search. There are right and wrong ways to write a resume for a teaching position.

If you are unsure how to write a resume correctly, review the tips below or check out the A to Z resume writing tips for teachers.

Ensure your resume looks professional, contains all pertinent information, and is easy to read.

A Resume Should be Precise and Organized: 

Include enough relevant information to communicate your value and leave out the fluff. Be specific and to the point in your education, experience, attributes, and quality points.

Networking is essential, but the resume is what school principals will review first. 

Who you know may help you with the interview, but it doesn’t guarantee the job.

Communicating what you have done will get your foot in the interview door.

If you submit an unprofessional resume, your chances of getting a teaching job will be slim.

Your Resume is a Reflection of You

A resume should contain your top skills and accomplishments. It is the first thing a potential school will review. The first tangible point of communication between you and your potential school principal is your resume and cover letter.

Selling the value and benefit you can bring with this significant piece of paper is vital to success.

If your resume is organized, current, and professional, it reflects the type of teacher you are likely to be. Sell yourself not only by what the resume contains but also by its appearance. Your resume’s content, design, and overall appearance are critical.

Keep Your Teacher Focused Resume Current

When hiring, school administrators and hiring representatives read through a stack of resumes. This is time-consuming, and often, they lack time. The more precise, organized, and shorter your resume, the easier it is for them to read.

Your resume should explain your skill sets and experience to help the school’s hiring authorities understand the benefits of hiring you. It should also contain your complete contact information, enabling them to connect with you easily. Keep it up to date, especially if you gain new knowledge or experience, change your contact information, or take new courses.

Focus on the Teaching Skills Relevant to the Job

A resume’s essential function is showcasing your skills and career achievements. It should also contain all the reasons why the school should hire you. When you apply for a specific teaching position, focus on your skills for that particular job.

For instance, if you are applying for a job as an ESL (English as Second Language) teacher, you will probably focus on your previous ESL teaching experience, ESL courses, your English B.A., and any other relevant experience you may have.

It wouldn’t mean too much to the school if you included your ability to drive a limousine or shingle and side a house. These are impressive skills, but they are not relevant to teaching. Don’t include in-depth facts about non-related skills—save the room for pertinent details.

Construct the Right Kind of Resume

Suppose you pursue a new teaching job through the numerous online job boards. In that case, you must have an excellent, well-written, and keyword-searchable professional resume that will pass the applicant tracking system.

Create different file formats for Internet applications. Schools prefer that the resume be uploaded or sent via email as an MS Word file, Rich Text, Text, or PDF format. Ensure you can easily edit the files to target the resume and cover letter for each position you apply for. Focus on the skills that are particular to each teaching position.

Be Grammatically Correct

Complete a spell check before printing, mailing, or submitting any form of your teacher-focused resume. Check the grammar, punctuation, formatting, and content. Ensure it flows smoothly, is organized, and is easy to read.

The quicker a school principal can maneuver through your resume, the quicker you may have an interview and, ultimately, the position you seek. A quick way to do this is to make a few lists before doing your resume. List your education, experience, specialized skills, and attributes.