Make a Lasting Impression
Each person you interview with will take a different approach to finding the right teacher. You always want to interview with a smile and be extra jovial when answering questions. Principals are always looking for someone that is confident and will be active in the classroom. Your preparation and presentation can make all the difference in securing your ideal teaching position.
Interview Preparation Resources
💡 Key Reminder
You should ask at least 2-3 intelligent questions at the conclusion of each interview. Having thoughtful questions prepared shows genuine interest in the position and helps you evaluate if the school is the right fit for you.
Prepare Your Objective & Mission
You will want to create an objective/goal and mission prior to an interview. Having something already developed and memorized will help you stay focused during an interview and demonstrate your educational philosophy clearly.
Sample Objective/Goal:
Sample Mission:
Essential Interview Tips
Proper Dress
Your first impression you make on a principal is extremely important. For a teaching interview, you should dress as if you were attending a church service or a wedding. Professional business attire shows respect for the position and the interview process.
Come Prepared
You should research the demographics and programs offered by the school prior to an interview. Citing real world examples tied to local school programs will help you stand out from the crowd. Proper preparation and rehearsing will help you feel more confident during an interview.
Practice, Practice, Practice
Like most things in life, a little practice can go a long way to making the interview a success. Have friends and family members ask hypothetical questions to make sure you are prepared for the upcoming interview. Practice will help you become more acquainted with the type of questions that may be asked.
Don't Be Late
The last thing you want to do at your interview is to be late. Being punctual will help exhibit maturity and responsiveness to principals. You should always arrive at your interview at least 20 minutes before your scheduled interview.
Positive Self-Talk
Positive thinking and deep breathing before the interview will help you be more confident and relaxed during the interview. Visualize success and remind yourself of your qualifications and strengths as an educator.
Silence Your Phone
Turn off your phone completely before entering the interview. Even a vibrating phone can be distracting and unprofessional. Give the interview your complete, undivided attention.
Strong Body Language
Maintain good eye contact, offer a firm handshake, sit up straight, and use open body language. Your non-verbal communication is just as important as your verbal responses.
Bring Extra Materials
Bring multiple copies of your resume, teaching portfolio, certifications, and a list of references. Having these materials readily available shows organization and preparedness.
🖥️ Virtual/Digital Interview Tips
All of the interview tips above still apply to a virtual or video interview, but it's important to make a few additional preparations:
💻 Test Your Technology
Test your internet connection, audio, and video well before your interview time. Depending on the reliability of your WiFi, it may be a good idea to connect via an ethernet cable instead if that's an option.
🎥 Familiarize with the Platform
If you haven't used the interview platform before, ask a friend to do a run-through with you so you can familiarize yourself with features of the program. Skype, Zoom, and Flipgrid are some common platforms used for virtual interviews.
🏠 Prepare Your Space
Choose a quiet place free of distraction as much as possible. Remove clutter and anything inappropriate. Elevate your camera to eye level and make sure you have adequate lighting for both you and your background.
🖼️ Check Your Background
It's important to have a professional background for your interview. You should check your background before your interview by taking a selfie or a screenshot of what the interviewer will see.
👁️ Maintain Eye Contact
Look at the camera while you are talking, not the screen. This creates the impression of eye contact with the interviewer and helps build connection.
👕 Dress Professionally
Dress professionally from head to toe, not just from the waist up. This helps you feel more professional and prepared for any unexpected movements on camera.
⭐ Final Thoughts
Remember, the interview is not just about the school evaluating you - it's also your opportunity to evaluate if the school is the right fit for you. Be authentic, be confident, and let your passion for teaching shine through. Good luck!