Whether you’re a new teacher headed to your first interview or a veteran teacher changing schools, the interview process can be stressful and time-consuming. Use these teacher interview tips to relieve that stress and to make the interview process easier.
Even though it was more than 20 years ago, I still remember my first interview really well. My hands were so sweaty as I waited for the interview to begin. There was a knot in my stomach, and my voice shook as I answered the first questions. Being surrounded by a room full of administrators was so intimidating. I wished I had done more to prepare.
Since that first interview, I have learned a lot about the interview process. Not only have I interviewed for other positions since then, but I’ve also been on an interview committee to hire new teachers. These experiences helped me realize that there are certain key ways to prepare for your interview. Here are some tips to help you succeed at your next interview.
Interview Tip #1: Research The District Where You Are Interviewing
Preparing for the interview starts long before you actually set foot inside the conference room. As soon as you know where you will be interviewing, do some research. Talk to any teachers you know who teach at that district, and look at the website for each school. Gather as much information as you can about the curriculum they use and any interesting events or activities they do.
It sounds silly, but for one of my interviews, I saw on the school website that they did a special reading challenge. When the students read a certain number of books, the principal had to kiss a fish. During the interview, the principal of that school asked me what characteristics my ideal school would have. I was able to tell her that it would be a place where students could have fun while learning, and I used the “kiss a fish” story as an example. She was so impressed that I had done my research, and she offered me a 5th-grade position.
Interview Tip #2: Get Your Teaching Portfolio Ready
If you are a new teacher, you probably started your teaching portfolio in college. It should include examples of lessons you did during your student teaching, your letters of recommendation, and anything else that showcases your strengths as an educator.
If you are an experienced teacher changing districts, put together a binder of your favorite lessons and anything else that you did in your classroom that shows your passion for teaching.
The interview committee might not directly ask to see your portfolio, but as you answer questions, show them specific examples from your portfolio that relate to their questions.
During one of my interviews, I was asked about my favorite lesson that I had ever taught. I was able to describe it and then show the lesson plan I used and some pictures of the lesson in action. The principals loved seeing these pieces of my teaching portfolio.
Use these tips to prepare your portfolio.
Interview Tip #3 - Practice Answering Interview Questions Ahead Of Time
Grab the list of interview questions below, and sit down with a friend for a mock interview. Have your friend ask you the questions, and practice answering them. Even though it’s not the same as an actual interview, just saying the answers out loud is one of the best things you can do to get ready for the big day.
These are some of the most common interview questions I’ve seen, both as the interviewer and as the interviewee.
- Why do you want to be a teacher?
- What steps do you use to plan a lesson?
- How do you differentiate your lessons so all students can be successful?
- What is the best lesson you have ever taught?
- Tell us about a lesson that didn’t go as planned. What would you change next time you teach it?
- How do you incorporate collaboration and project-based learning into your lessons?
- How do you use technology in your classroom?
- How do you build relationships with your students and create a classroom community?
- How do you build positive relationships with your students’ parents?
- How would you handle a disruptive student?
- What are your strengths as an educator?
- What are your weaknesses as an educator?
- How do you see yourself engaging with the broader school community?
- Why are you interviewing for this particular grade level?
- Is there anything that you think we should know about you that you haven’t shared already?
- What questions do you have for us?
Interview Tip #4 - Show Up Ready And Convey Your Passion For Teaching
The first three tips are all things to do before your actual interview. Now, let’s talk about the interview day. Start by dressing professionally. When you look your best, you feel more confident.
As you answer the questions, show the interviewers your excitement and passion for teaching. Let your personality show and answer the questions from your heart. Even if you’ve practiced for hours, try to keep your answers from sounding rehearsed.
Interview Tip #5 - Send A Thank You Email
This last tip is something you should do after the interview ends. When you get home, write a thank you note to each of the interviewers. You should be able to find their email addresses on the school website. This follow-up just shows that you really care and want to become part of their school community.
Even if you are feeling really anxious about an upcoming interview, following these 5 tips will help you feel more prepared and less stressed. Remember to take a deep breath, smile, and be yourself. You are going to rock your next interview!
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