Last Minute Tips for Interviewing
Congratulations. You just received a phone call from one of your favorite school districts and
they have invited you for an interview. You are understandably excited and just a little nervous.
What can you do to help increase your chances of getting the job? Here are a few last minute tips
that might help separate you from the rest of the field.
Start by changing places with the person who is about to interview you. If you were
interviewing teachers, what would you want them to do and say in an interview?
First, you would want someone who demonstrates a real love for teaching and working with
kids. A person with good basic values, who will work hard every day and tell the truth even when it
hurts. Someone who is friendly and relates well with people. Someone who will shake your hand and
look at you when you are talking. A person who answers questions directly and honestly and isn’t
afraid to say, “I don’t know the answer to your question, but if you give me 24 hours, I will.” A
person who needs minimal supervision and direction, and isn’t afraid to ask for help when needed.
You need to clearly paint a picture of who you are in your interview and what they can expect
from you as an employee. The people who will interview you won’t expect perfection. They know you
are an unfinished product. You don’t need a fancy briefcase, portfolio, and a new expensive suit.
Take instead several thank you letters you have received from kids, parents, and colleagues. Dress
to the standards of the school district and don’t worry about buying a new suit. It’s not
important. If you can convince the person across the table from you that you deeply care about
kids, will work hard, and be a faithful employee, you have a great chance of getting a job.