A1: If possible, do a drive by of the school the day before so you know exactly where it is and/or arrive to the area super early to be sure you’re not late. Can always snag a coffee and get in the zone! #engagechat
A1 Review in your mind your path to this point Sharing your story & integrating your passion for teaching is so important Many answers are similar, its the extra words that matter #engagechat
A1: Research the school/division you are interviewing with, practice answers to common questions, and prepare imformed questions to ask the interviewer. #engagechat
A1. Researching stats and data are important. However, it is more important to understand the ‘why’ of the school/district. What are they trying to achieve and what is their plan to get there? Once you know that, you can determine how you can make a difference #engagechat
A1: If you want to work for an organization/school/district you should know why it's a good fit for both of you. Learn as much as you can about their strengths and needs. #engagechat
A1: role play with other professionals, discover your why... and become your own interviewer... think from the perspective of who you would want to hire you... #engagechat
A1 Take the time to research and become acquainted about the person and place you're interviewing with. It's a courtesy and shows you care about the people and place. #EngageChat
A1: Be well groomed, arrive on time, research the SD, and most of all, know what you are talking about. Don't ramble! Be direct and polite. #engagechat
A1: Have good reason for choosing the placement/district. That's an important piece. They want to know that you WANT to be there. Research it. #engagechat
#engagechat Prepare prepare prepare- get in the frame of mind where success is the only option- dress for success- be positive and purposeful and look the interviewer in the eye, give a firm handshake and be humble but confident
A1: Be real! You have to be who you are. If you don't, the job might not be the right fit for you, your beliefs, your passion.
Eye contact!
Do your research: on the grade level, the building & the district.
#engagechat
A1: Research the school, don’t wear strong perfume/cologne, brush your teeth, and say something nice to the person who greets you when you walk in. Good first impressions by the school secretary are vital! #engagechat
A1: role play with other professionals, discover your why... and become your own interviewer... think from the perspective of who you would want to hire you... #engagechat
A1: Have good reason for choosing the placement/district. That's an important piece. They want to know that you WANT to be there. Research it. #engagechat
A2: To prepare, anticipate questions that might be asked, do a little research on the place you are interviewing, and practice (the mirror works great!). (*I just conducted a phone interview an hour ago!) #engagechat
A1: I google/LinkedIn stalk the people so I can gather as much intel as possible, also contact PLN to get as much intel about people and place. Benefit of today vs 20 years ago #engagechat
#engagechat Prepare prepare prepare- get in the frame of mind where success is the only option- dress for success- be positive and purposeful and look the interviewer in the eye, give a firm handshake and be humble but confident
A1 #EngageChat My grandmother always used to tell me- a first impression is a snapshot, it has to be vibrant, deliberate and personal. No one wants an out of focus picture.
A1: Research the school, don’t wear strong perfume/cologne, brush your teeth, and say something nice to the person who greets you when you walk in. Good first impressions by the school secretary are vital! #engagechat
A1: Read at least 1 years worth of school board minutes. You learn a lot about a school but it also impresses the interviewers when you can pull into conversation things in minutes. #engagechat
A1 #EngageChat My grandmother always used to tell me- a first impression is a snapshot, it has to be vibrant, deliberate and personal. No one wants an out of focus picture.
A1: To prepare, anticipate questions that might be asked, do a little research on the place you are interviewing with, practice (in the mirror works great!), and always be yourself. It needs to be a match for you and the organization. #engagechat
Amen Lynne! When we choose because of a reason such as location and or income opportunity, we may end up signing up for something we really aren't passionate about...#EngageChat
A1: To prepare, anticipate questions that might be asked, do a little research on the place you are interviewing with, practice (in the mirror works great!), and always be yourself. It needs to be a match for you and the organization. #engagechat
A1: Have questions prepared for them. Let them do some talking, too. Also shows that you’re as much interested in seeing if the school is a fit for you as they are #engagechat
As a teacher #EngageChat definitely research the school, principal etc. make sure your philosophy of education matches theirs. No one wants to work at a school whose philosophy doesn’t align with your own
As an admin, look up community, school data...you want to know as much as you can. You interview school as much as they interview you. Want to be a match for both #engagechat
A1 #EngageChat I was hired at my current school by a phone interview- I had notes written down about things I had done, my aspirations of my next classroom- I made sure it was my ideal school- so blessed it is and she felt it too
A2 Personal experience: Having my ideas & passion for teaching not being valid to those I'm interviewing with The last thing you want is to hear your philosophy is out of touch #engagechat
A2: The unknown. Every situation and committee is different. I always fear talking too much. Need to know when to stop...make answers concise, engaging, and relevant #engagechat
I never feared anything about an interview – on the contrary I looked forward it to it and couldn’t wait for the day to arrive. To be able to sit in a room with educators and talk about my favorite topic – what could be better? #EngageChat
A2: Other than not being chosen, I always feared embarrassing myself with an unzipped fly, spilling a cup of water, toilet paper stuck to my shoe, or an accidental burp. #engagechat
A2: My biggest fear is that I'm not what they're looking for.
Now, I feel as if I've educated myself right out of a job because with 33 years of experience and a masters, they could hire two Ts fresh out of college for what they'd have to pay me. #engagechat
A2: Thinking back to my own experiences, I would say the biggest fear was not being able to answer questions. I then learned that I didn't have to "know" everything and to be honest and express a willingness to learn.
#engagechat
#EngageChat Fear of stumbling over their words or not having the answer the interviewer is looking for. We all fear rejection. I have been rejected in interviews way more than I can count. We have to see the “pass” as a gift because our perfect position is wIting to be found
Yes, absolutely! School culture and beliefs are so important! I switched schools two years ago and I am so much happier being some place where my beliefs are aligned. #engagechat
A2 Many people fear the surprise and uncomfortable question. Accept that those are likely coming. Be well versed on your subject so you can turn any such questions to your advantage. #EngageChat
A2: For me, being caught off-guard or unprepared to answer a question. I try to prepare for all possible questions, but it's scary to think you might be surprised. #engagechat
Me neither! Interviews don't bother me. I'm confident enough to apply for the position. I will do my best. If they feel I'm a good fit, then we're good to go. If not, I'm movin' on to the next one! No harm done!
#engagechat
A2: When they schedule a person or group to interview you at lunch and you try to balance normal eating with talking while EVERYONE is watching you! 😬#engagechat
A2: Thinking back to my own experiences, I would say the biggest fear was not being able to answer questions. I then learned that I didn't have to "know" everything and to be honest and express a willingness to learn.
#engagechat
A2: Most people fear not being prepared to answer a question thoroughly. I've always written out questions that might be presented during an interview. Oftentimes a few of the questions I've generated are pitched to me. #engagechat
#EngageChat Fear of stumbling over their words or not having the answer the interviewer is looking for. We all fear rejection. I have been rejected in interviews way more than I can count. We have to see the “pass” as a gift because our perfect position is wIting to be found
A2: As a gay man, I always fear that my sexuality might be an issue. Just because it may be against the law to discriminate doesn’t mean it won’t happen. #engagechat
A2 Many people fear the surprise and uncomfortable question. Accept that those are likely coming. Be well versed on your subject so you can turn any such questions to your advantage. #EngageChat
I always had the perception that if I wasn’t hired that I wasn’t the right fit – it would be a good thing for them to hire someone else. With this in mind it never worried me if I wasn’t the candidate selected. #engagechat
A2: I'm an ambivert (introverted & extroverted), and I like to think about my response, but I worry it might look like I don't have a response because I didn't come right back with an answer.
#engagechat
A2:not having the right answer. Everyone thinks they have to answer every question perfectly. It's okay to admit you don't know...some folks might like the honesty.
#engagechat
I think a lot of people fear not being able to answer a question... however, it can work to your advantage -- I think it demonstrates honesty to be able to say... "I don't know the answer to this, but this is the process I would go about to figure it out." #engagechat
A2: Most people fear not being prepared to answer a question thoroughly. I've always written out questions that might be presented during an interview. Oftentimes a few of the questions I've generated are pitched to me. #engagechat
A2 #engagechat we all have a fear of rejection- of stumbling over our answers- but rejection can be a good thing, a positive motivator to improve and grow. Also that our dream job is right around the corner
Lets hope & pray that the day is coming where a person can be themselves & not be judged or discriminated against Every human has something to give to another, every human has value #engagechat I'll get off my soapbox now
In 26 years of being a principal I interviewed hundreds and hundreds of applicants. I always wanted new experiences for myself so I never stayed in one place past nine years. I had an absolutely amazing career. #engagechat
I hope everyday for that, but then I read just yesterday about a gay teacher who received flowers from his husband at school and it stirred up quite the controversy. #engagechat
A2 #engagechat When we focus too hard on impressing people and not being ourselves- we can settle for a position thT is not tight for us. Be honest and open- confident and motivated and they will see your genuineness- this goes a long way especially as educators
A2 Most people fear forgetting some important information about themselves. When thinking on the fly we are rarely as fluid as when we are fully prepared. Nerves and doubt sometimes hide our true potential. #engagechat
A2 #engagechat When we focus too hard on impressing people and not being ourselves- we can settle for a position thT is not tight for us. Be honest and open- confident and motivated and they will see your genuineness- this goes a long way especially as educators
A2 #engagechat When we focus too hard on impressing people and not being ourselves- we can settle for a position that is not right for us. Be honest and open- confident and motivated and they will see your genuineness- this goes a long way especially as educators
A3: Responses should show your depth of knowledge, but they should also be honest. Also, your philosophy should come through in your answers. That will ensure you are a good fit for them. #engagechat
A3: be honest, and true to who you are as an educator. If you respond honestly - and they don't hire you because of it, that isn't the place/school/district you are meant to be... #engagechat
A2 Most people fear forgetting some important information about themselves. When thinking on the fly we are rarely as fluid as when we are fully prepared. Nerves and doubt sometimes hide our true potential. #engagechat
A3: I like to respond thoughtfully and in my own style. Interviewers do not want to hear the robotic Ts jargon repeated over and over. Yes, we may know it, but they want to know us and how it fits into OUR style of teaching. #engagechat.
A3: Don't ramble (I've done my share! Eeeeks!), be consise but make sure to answer the question, and be honest. It's okay to not have an answer as long as you have a willingness to learn.
#engagechat
A1 Research a d get to know the district/and or school you are interviewing. Know their mission/vison, know your own vision for education. Make a list of your strengths and challenges. Be honest. Prepare your story and share how much you shine. #engagechat
A3: Responses should show your depth of knowledge, but they should also be honest. Also, your philosophy should come through in your answers. That will ensure you are a good fit for them. #engagechat
A3: Aways make answers personal. Humans are story tellers so we respond better to that than we do all the “lingo”. Personal stories build connections and will likely connect with someone on the interview team. #engagechat
A3 In responding, be sure to answer the question. Don't be afraid to ask for clarification. Rephrase the question in your own words so you can reply in the context you're most comfortable with. #EngageChat
A2: Catching up...
Not able to articulate enough the positive work you do. It could be quite intimidating as a non-native speaker to be interviewed in English. #engagechat
A3: One tip: If you are unsure about what you have been asked during an interview, ask for a clarification of the question. Better to do that then to respond somewhat or completely off topic.
#engagechat
A3: I like to respond thoughtfully and in my own style. Interviewers do not want to hear the robotic Ts jargon repeated over and over. Yes, we may know it, but they want to know us and how it fits into OUR style of teaching. #engagechat.
#engagechat I will repeat the question aloud, on occasion especially if it is multi-layered. this gives me a moment to refocus and I am not going uh, uh. Plus it shows the interviewer that I am present and truly listening and thinking about their questions
Absolutely! If you don’t know the answer to a question you can always state that and share how excited you are to learn more about that topic or initiative. Let them know you are going to research more. #engagechat
A3: Don't ramble (I've done my share! Eeeeks!), be concise but make sure to answer the question, be honest, and be yourself. It's okay to not have an answer as long as you have a willingness to learn and/or grow.
#engagechat
A3: Be genuine. Give examples from previous experience if possible. Smile. If you brought a portfolio, use it to answer questions and show off what you've done; don't let it just sit there! #engagechat
A3 Take a deep breath, be honest, share your narrative. Keep your answers full of hope and positivity. Turn challenges into opportunities. Share that you are a learner for life and how you keep growing. Model authenticity. #engagechat
A1 Practice questions the most common questions in the mirror. Know the school, wear it’s colors to the interview. Prepare an entrance plan. Then instead of only talking about what you’ve done, you can share ideas for what you WILL doo #engagechat
couldn't agree more... I would even go as far as admitting mistakes you have made... people want to work with and LEARN from humbled educators... not experts. #engagechat
A3 #engagechat I find for me, that if I answer the question concisely, then pause and see if they want elaboration. Then a real world experience from my teaching is always they way I finish the answer. Make it feel more personal and relatable
Toone interview I brought a school bell that was over 100 years old used by my grandmother in a one room school house in southern Minnesota. I shared with them that I was the third generation teacher and what a passionate was. #engagechat#EngageChat
A3: Don’t be afraid to take a moment to think about the answer. Silence is okay. Make sure you are clear, concise, and don’t talk around the question. Be direct. #engagechat
Yes they do! I've been doing this 25+ yrs & if Ss were not growing like they are I would have left the profession a long time ago Children are our hope for the future #engagechat
A3: Listen to what the interviewer is saying. Sometimes we jump the gun & we don’t really pay attention to what is actually being said (maybe bec we’re nervous & it’s difficult to concentrate). Respond to what is being asked, not what you think is being asked. #engagechat
A3: Be genuine. Give examples from previous experience if possible. Smile. If you brought a portfolio, use it to answer questions and show off what you've done; don't let it just sit there! #engagechat
A3 Make eye contact with the person who asked it and smile. Relationship building can start right there. After the initial be sure to speak to the whole room (calmly and collectively on the outside) outer calm even if there’s inner storm. #engagechat
This is excellent advice! Often times I purposely didn’t share a copy of the interview questions with whomever I was interviewing as I wanted to assess their ability to listen carefully and then respond thoughtfully. You’d be surprised how many people are challenged. #engagechat
A3: Listen to what the interviewer is saying. Sometimes we jump the gun & we don’t really pay attention to what is actually being said (maybe bec we’re nervous & it’s difficult to concentrate). Respond to what is being asked, not what you think is being asked. #engagechat
A4: Successful interviews for me were when I could walk away feeling like I really gave my all and represented my true self - - whether I was the "match" or not.
#engagechat
And ALWAYS ask a question at the end. My favorite for the interviewers is, "What is the most rewarding and most challenging part of working in ___ district or school?" #engagechat
A4: One in which you were able to (1) put your best foot forward and (2) learn something about the position/organization that you may not have known beforehand. #engagechat
A4: One that both parties leave feeling they met their objective: the interviewer has the all the info they need to make a decision on this candidate, and the interviewee has portrayed themselves in a professional manner. #engagechat
A4: Success is relative. Do you feel good about the interview? Did you make the points you wanted to make? Did you show the interviewer who you are as a person? #engagechat
Great point in asking what is asked. Attentiveness. A second piece is being genuine & sticking to your ideas. The best answer is your answer not what you think the committee’s answer is #engagechat
A3: Listen to what the interviewer is saying. Sometimes we jump the gun & we don’t really pay attention to what is actually being said (maybe bec we’re nervous & it’s difficult to concentrate). Respond to what is being asked, not what you think is being asked. #engagechat
A4 A successful interview leaves interviewer and interviewee with good feelings, especially knowing you did the best you could. You might not have gotten hired, but that might be more a matter of circumstances than you. Learn for the next time. #EngageChat
#engagechat A4. Interviewing is a process and in most cases, excellent learning. Yes, I've wanted a job, but the experience without an offer was very valuable
At this point I can’t honestly answer in any other way. I don’t want “good practice” If I applied for your job and showed up for an interview, I want it.
Success is a contract. Anything less is disappointing #EngageChat
My first job was the one I did not want after the interview...very glad I took that job The one I wanted never called The hiring process is a strange series of events #engagechat
A4: Walking out knowing I've answered all questions to the best of my ability, all my questions have been answered, built a rapport with the interviewer, and feeling like the job would be a good fit. #engagechat
A4: When you leave knowing that you've been true to yourself and answered the questions to the best of your ability. When you know you've shown them your passion. #engagechat
A4 Knowing you left the room with a great impression and feeling as though you provided the truest version of who you are as an educator and leader. A job offer is also a dead giveaway. #engagechat
A4 #EngageChat A successful interview is one where I know I gave it my all and where I made a connection with the interviewer. However those are not necessarily the jobs I get offered. But, when I made the interviewer want elaboration- I know I made a positive impression
A4: Even when I don’t get the job (I’ve had more than my fair share), my interview is successful when I have made a positive impression. When there’s an opening for a job & they contact you to see if you’re still interested working for them. #engagechat
A4: having an honest conversation with a person or group of people and getting them to see you as the educator you have been, have become, and want to be. I always want to be growing. And I want to know if the organization I become a part of will help me to do that #engagechat
Success and landing the job is one aspect but I always had a sense of tremendous responsibility knowing I was about to embark on A new challenge that would involve all of my energy and dedication. #EngageChat
A4 #EngageChat A brief moment where you showcase yourself in a memorable way. Where, when you walk out the door your CV doesn’t end up on the bottom of the pile- you feel it- you know it was set aside - call back or not, they remember you
A4 Knowing you left the room with a great impression and feeling as though you provided the truest version of who you are as an educator and leader. A job offer is also a dead giveaway. #engagechat
Success and landing the job is one aspect but I always had a sense of tremendous responsibility knowing I was about to embark on A new challenge that would involve all of my energy and dedication. #EngageChat
I have a question for #engagechat - Should you ever answer a question with a question? What about at the end of the interview asking "how do you see me fitting into your organization?" - Is this a good idea or a mistake? Just curious... @daviswelcome@EngageChat
A4: A successful interview is one you can walk away from feeling like you were able to talk about your best attributes while also learning about the place/position. That's how you know if it's a fit. Makes responding so much easier. #engagechat
A4 #engagechat You walk on air as you leave the building. You stayed genuine and honest even if the truth, maybe not flattering, was shared- showing you as humble and showing growth and your mindset for improvement
A4: I once interviewed somewhere that I thought I was a good fit. During the interview I realized it wasn’t the kind of place I wanted to be afterall. I didn’t get the job. I didn’t have to turn it down. That was successful. #engagechat
My aim is be offered the position. A successful interview ends with that. I’ve been on enough, I have plenty of better ways I can grow. I want the option to turn it down if the fit isn’t right, not the other way around. That’s success #EngageChat
A5 Its been 19 yrs, but I remember trying to remind myself that I had a job & was successful in Ss minds This hire/not hire will not define me as a teacher...Still glad I was hired! Thx Mr. Close! #engagechat
A4: Feeling a real connection with the folks around the table and knowing I represented myself as I truly am is a no regrets positive experience in an interview. #engagechat
A5: Go for a walk, with some good tunes, the night before. Get a good night's sleep. Review what you know about the job. Remind yourself of your "why." Go in a be who your are and share your passion. If it's the right fit, you'll know it after the interview. #engagechat
A5: I don't mentally prepare. I try to just know what the interview is about and determine to be myself. If I am well-prepared, it will be like a good conversation. I can enjoy myself and make a good impression. No need to psyche myself out. #engagechat
A5, I listen to relaxing music or sing really loudly on the drive. I think through potential questions and scenarios, and occasionally listen to Voxer #engagechat
A5: I like lists. I doodle a list of highlights I want to remember so the visuals stick in my brain. I also wear great shoes with fun socks. They make me feel relaxed and my southern charm oozes out like honey from the hive. :) #engagechat
Oh .... often, right before an interview, you are waiting in an office area with secretaries or others from the building. This is excellent time to learn as much as you can from the surroundings and anything they might want to share. #EngageChat
A5: I mentally prepare by doing whatever helps me with stress relief (sleep, exercise, etc.) and prepare, prepare, prepare for the interview. I'm pretty sure I would pray a little too. ;o)
#engagechat
A5 Mentally prepare for an interview by not over preparing, over thinking or worrying yourself sick. Know your subject, be confident, and treat the interview not as an applicant wishing, but as an expect who has come to offer your advice. Ask, "How can I help you?" #EngageChat
#engagechat A5. I remind myself that I bring a lot to an organization. But, there has to be a fit on both ends..Whatever happens I will learn and improve my skills
A5: Go for a walk, with some good tunes, the night before. Get a good night's sleep. Review what you know about the job. Remind yourself of your "why." Go in a be who your are and share your passion. If it's the right fit, you'll know it after the interview. #engagechat
A5 - I reread my resume and spend some quiet time thinking about my past students. When I need a story to answer a question, a little face pops into my mind and helps me share my passion. #engagechat
A5: RELAX! and know that the process of an interview is either going to open the door or close it. Be just as open to both outcomes. Doors get you to the place you need to be... and that always gives me peace of mind #engagechat
A5 I sleep, relax, talk with my friends about my preparation. I research and review all my material. I find ways to not overthink it and go out for a good dinner. A nice coffee right before to get me prepped. #engagechat
A5 #engagechat I get there early. Meditate/calm my mind. I let the energy of the moment find me. I usually can tell very quickly if where I am interviewing, is where I want to work. There is an energy, either welcoming/positive or stale /necessary. If it’s the former- I lean in.
Oh .... often, right before an interview, you are waiting in an office area with secretaries or others from the building. This is excellent time to learn as much as you can from the surroundings and anything they might want to share. #EngageChat
A5: The hubby and I ask each other possible questions. We TRY to relax, but of course, that’s close to impossible. A lot of deep breaths and trips to the bathroom! #engagechat
A5 - I reread my resume and spend some quiet time thinking about my past students. When I need a story to answer a question, a little face pops into my mind and helps me share my passion. #engagechat
Lol nice Catherine...Some of my friends or other peers will also give me a fake one and give me the once-over...Have to say my wife is great at making me feel a little smaller before encouraging me to do my best #engagechat#toughcritic
Totally agree! Your response is so wise. It’s amazing how you can spend two or three minutes in a school building and immediately get a sense of culture. Great learning opportunity and you wouldn’t want to miss out on taking in everything possible by being nervous. #engagechat
A5 #engagechat I get there early. Meditate/calm my mind. I let the energy of the moment find me. I usually can tell very quickly if where I am interviewing, is where I want to work. There is an energy, either welcoming/positive or stale /necessary. If it’s the former- I lean in.
It might even be a marketable skill to try to keep my eyes open to closer proof my "expert" tweets before I "expect" to hit Send. That hurt. #EngageChat
