In the world of recruitment there are three things you can’t do without: s1jobs, a polished CV and the ability to perform well in an interview.
The first is easy, the second achievable with our Sparkling CV guide but the third can be more troublesome.
Basically, there are two types of people who go for job interviews: those who are nervous and those who are even more nervous.
And this is true whether you’re starting out on your career in education or have experience and seeking a promoted post.
It’s also perfectly natural. And with these top tips you can calm any nerves and look forward, instead, to a successful meeting . . . and landing that dream job.
Go in prepared
Firstly, you should know what you’re getting yourself into. This means finding out all you can about the role, whether that’s a position as a classroom assistant or promotion to head teacher.
This also means researching the school: its history, its ethos, its academic and extracurricular programmes.
Where there are gaps, use these as questions to help you gain more insight – and allow your interviewer to appreciate you’re well prepared and keen to learn more.
Dress for success
The trouble with your take on cutting edge fashion is it can make you feel vulnerable in the school environment – let’s face it, kids are not known for kindness in the fashion stakes.
So start as you mean to go on. For your interview wear professional clothing which makes you feel comfortable but is smart enough for your interviewer to regard you as good role model material.
Listen and learn
The worst thing you can do during your interview is talk incessantly. Leave pauses so your interviewer feels they are having positive input.
By listening carefully you can better control the interview process – fully digesting each question allows you to answer using your research and your own experiences in the classroom.
If you don’t yet have classroom experience, don’t be afraid to use examples from jobs where you used skills such as good communication.
Always follow up
You’ll enjoy a massive sense of relief leaving the interview room – and the satisfaction of a job well done, if you’ve followed our top tips.
But the process doesn’t end here.
Write a thank you note to your interviewer as soon as possible: this leaves a good impression that could clinch the deal. Even if it doesn’t, it could see you stay top of the shortlist should another role come along.
Now let’s get started with a look at the best Teaching vacancies on s1jobs