Use tried and tested teacher interview tips to get the teaching job you want. Learn how to set yourself apart from the other candidates applying for the same teaching opportunity.
Find out how to prepare for your job interview and come across as a confident and competent teaching professional. These top 10 tips cover all the key aspects of your teacher job interview.
1. Do your homework
Use social media, the internet, friends and teaching colleagues to find out
as much relevant information about the school district before your
interview as you can.
Focus on details like:
The more research you have done the better equipped you will be to answer and ask the right questions.
The more you know about the school district, its students, and its curriculum, the better prepared you will be to prove that your skills and abilities match their needs.
2. Prepare a comprehensive teacher interview portfolio
View this guide on putting together your teacher portfolio.
Don’t wait for an interviewer to ask to see your portfolio, rather be ready to pull out examples of your work whenever something in your portfolio relates to what is being asked. Interviewers will be impressed by your planning and preparation.
3. Prepare good answers to teacher interview questions
This will set you apart as prepared and professional. Use this guide to answering teacher interview questions to help you. Practice your answers, conduct a mock interview with friends and family.
4. Prepare for behavioral interview questions
You will be asked a number of behavioral-based interview questions in your teacher job interview. These behavioral teacher interview questions explore the core teaching competencies required for successful job performance. Have your stories ready.
5. Be ready for general job interview questions
Prepare for the frequently asked interview questions you are likely to be asked in your teaching interview. View this complete list of sample job interview questions to help you with your preparation.
6. Have a list of questions ready to ask the interviewer
Prepare a list of thoughtful and relevant questions to ask in the teaching interview.
This indicates that you have given the job opportunity some considerable thought before your interview. View a list of good questions at teaching interview questions to ask
7. Choose the right interview clothes
You want to look professional and make a good first impression. For a teacher position more conservative and formal is the safest bet. See the advice given in job interview dress code to help you select the appropriate attire for a teaching job interview.
8. Check your social media
Particularly important teacher interview tips include checking that your public online image is appropriate and one that you would be happy for a prospective employer to see.
Click on tips on job interviews
to find out how to ensure your email address, voice mail and social
networking profile will not derail your chances of getting the teaching
job.
9. Communicate effectively in your interview
During the teaching interview smile, speak positively, and use your body language to express your enthusiasm for the position. Enthusiasm is key to successful teaching.
View these expert tips on interview body language to send the right message.
Teacher interview tips for establishing a good rapport with your interviewer.
Close the interview effectively and leave on the right note.
10. Follow up after the interview
Always send a thank you letter within 24 hours of your teacher interview. Use the sample teacher interview thank you letter to help you write a convincing follow up letter.
Follow the teacher interview tips and be sure that you come across as the best candidate for the teaching position.
Expect teaching interview questions that explore your motivation and strengths as a teacher.
How to answer teacher interview questions about classroom management and discipline.
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