Getting Your First Teaching Job

So you've completed all your course work. You've visited schools to do observations. Then you survived the dreaded 'student teaching.' You want to go right to work and you've always heard that there are lots of jobs available yet you've been unable to get one. Could you have been more prepared? What can an aspiring teacher do to ensure they will get a job when they graduate? There are a few simple things you should make sure to do.

Begin by making connections. Many teachers may feel this is not as important in their field as with other fields. They are sadly mistaken. Making connections while in school and during your student teaching can be very helpful. You should take time to get to know professors while in college. You don't need to be best friends, but you do need to have some interaction with at least a couple of your professors. Professors are able to write letters of recommendation when trying to get a job. Also take time to get to know other teachers and administrators while doing your student teaching. You never know when a job opening will come open and if a school remembers you, they may call you up at this time.

It is crucial to be prepared for your job interview. You should do all the 'norms' such as dress appropriately, show on time and so on. More importantly you need to be prepared for the types of questions the principal will ask. Most principals will want to get your ideas on classroom management as well as find out your knowledge of balanced literacy. Do some research. Find out what types of questions are typically asked and practice answering them ahead of time. You can go into an interview looking great, but if you don't seem knowledgeable of your profession, you won't get hired.

Job fairs are usually great for finding teaching jobs. If you are fortunate enough to find a fair that is specifically for teachers make sure to attend. Even if you don't get a job you will make connections with administrators and get a great feel for the interview process. Even if you have to travel some to get to such an event, they are usually well worth your time.

It's also important to have all the important paperwork needed to get a job. Make sure your resume is up-to-date and correct. Have other important documents like copies of transcripts, degrees and licensor. Consider carrying a small portfolio that shows off some of your work. Keep this simple however as most principals will not look at a huge notebook.

Finally, make sure you stay busy as you are waiting. If you've yet to get a job, sign up as a substitute. This is a great way to work on skills you've learned in college while continuing to make connections with administrators. If an administrator sees a substitute come in and do a good job they may look to hire them. Look also for opportunities to tutor and work in after-school programs.

Not every teacher will have a job lined up the day they graduate. However by staying prepared and following some of the mention tips, you will soon find a place to work as an educator.