Tips on How to Apply for a Teaching Job and Obtain an Interview

Are you a new teacher looking for a teaching job? This article shares some advice on how to apply for a teaching job and become one of the chosen few who receive an interview.

As in many professions, finding a teaching job is highly competitive. The number of new teachers entering the workforce generally outnumbers those retiring, making it difficult to obtain a teaching job upon graduation. I have been fortunate to be one of the few teachers who has never had to substitute teach despite moving four times. I learned several tricks of the trade about how to contact school districts and positively market myself to hiring committees. These are some of the tricks I utilized.

Packet of Information
Do not simply mail a resume' to a school district. Assemble a complete packet of information about yourself to submit to the district for the interview committee. They try to choose the highest qualified candidates to interview, so providing a complete snapshot of yourself on paper is highly recommended. The packet should, at a minimum, include your cover letter, resume', transcripts, and three strong letters of recommendation. If possible, hand deliver the packet to the district. Not only does this save postage, but you may be able to make eye contact and a favorable impression upon someone with the power to hire you.

Obtaining Letters of Recommendation
For those still in college there is hope for you. Ask every professor who gives you a decent grade for a letter of recommendation. That way you can pick and choose which letters to submit in a hiring packet. If you have already graduated, make sure to obtain a letter of recommendation from either a supervising teacher, principal, or superintendent associated with your prior work experience.

Cover Letter
Prior to writing your teaching cover letter, verify the title and name of the superintendent, because the correct "Ms.", "Mrs.", or "Dr." makes a big difference. Do some research ahead of time either on the Internet or with a few phone calls. If possible, find out the actual job description and incorporate it into your cover letter or goal statement. It is important to personalize the cover letter and not use a generic one for every district. Show the district you have strong hopes of working with them.

Through the entire process, remain professional and courteous. Accentuate your strengths and improve upon weak areas. Remember to proofread all correspondence with the school district before sending it. All these details make a difference and will help you remain in the candidate pool. Most importantly, believe in yourself because your confidence while shine through.

Have you used these tips to obtain a teaching interview? What advice do you have for receiving an interview? Please comment below!

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