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Interview Advice
The Interview
It is true that your CV will pave the way to an interview, however, many candidates fail at interview for reasons that could easily have been avoided. Dressing to impress is certainly not an antiquated expectation. Your appearance suggests a great deal about the way you work. If you are scruffy, this may suggest to potential employers, that you are unprofessional, or perhaps that you do not take pride in your work. You want to convey the impression that you are organised, plan carefully, are confident and will be an ambassador the employer will be proud of.
There are five things that every candidate should know prior to setting foot in an interview:
Dress to impress
To impress a prospective employer you simply must dress in a professional way. The way you look suggests a great deal about your organization, efficiency and professionalism. As a teacher, you are expected to be a role model to young people and so at interview, must appear so. Unless part of your interview is a trial lesson that requires you to dress in particular clothing, then men should wear a shirt and tie and women should dress in smart trousers/skirt and neat shirt or jacket. Nobody should wear jeans or trainers to an interview.
The importance of enthusiasm
Smile. Enjoy the interview and trial lesson. Would you employ a teacher who seemed to not be enjoying teaching? Being in the classroom is in many respects, a performance and the interview is certainly an audition.
How to open the interview
Be prepared for different methods of opening. The employer might begin by asking specific questions. They might give you the floor. In this case, begin by stating you would like to talk about your teaching.
How to sell your strong points and strengthen your weaknesses
Focus on your positives and the skills you have acquired to date. Discuss things you have learnt and how you have altered your teaching/management style. This will not only expose your strengths in general, but also suggest that you are able to identify your weaknesses and be proactive about improving your skills. Use phrases like; ‘I enjoy…..,’ ‘hope to be able to……,’ ‘I have had success with…….,’ ‘I have contributed to /assisted with….’.
How to talk about salary Salary discussions can be introduced by asking how your experience and qualifications will be recognised. It is important to recognize what your skills might be ‘worth’. If you are an NQT, requesting management or other extra points, is likely to work against you. Discussing what you were paid in your previous employment and perhaps mentioning that you would like an increase or at least that amount, is non threatening and reasonable. Being reasonable and quietly confident is the key.
How to close the interview
Thank those conducting the interview for speaking with you and showing you around the school, ask when they are likely to make a decision and how you will be informed.
Preparation is essential! Good luck.
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