words+of+wisdom

In an effort to help applicants with future applications I would like to offer the following generalised comments.


 * Clearfiles are not particularly user friendly when handling large numbers of application materials. They also fail to deliver the level of professionalism that a bound publication achieves.
 * Consider how you CV will sit in the hands of a parent Board member.
 * There seems to be an issue with most male applicants. I’m sorry guys but all but one CV from a male were incredibly feeble on the scale of professionalism! Remember the CV gets you past the first check point, simply being male just isn’t enough!
 * The most successful CVs are of an exceptional standard. They would sit well on a book store shelf! Some include professionally taken photography and graphics. Computer technology has put this standard into the hands of virtually everyone who bothers.
 * An application that is written very specifically to the advertised job is better received than a more general one. This can be achieved in a variety of ways: a detailed covering letter; a separate ‘tailored’ application as well as the more general CV.
 * Check that the headings you use match up with the core business of the schooling environment.
 * Applicants need to consider the contact numbers offered for referees. Are they going to be at school when the appointments process is during a holiday period? Current cellphone numbers are great.
 * Make sure that all of the numbers are correct! Sounds simple but you would be amazed!!
 * The inclusion of supporting material such as references, congratulatory letters and certificates adds to the impact of the CV material. Arrange them in chronological order - youngest to oldest at the back.
 * Make sure your name is bold and obvious on the front cover.
 * If you have prior work experience definitely include it but consider how the teaching appointment panel will view it. They need to se how those experiences can add to your school contribution. You don’t want to look like you are more suited to a different profession!
 * Don’t make your CV so short that the appointments panel is left wondering.
 * Make sure that your referees can speak to your suitability for the job you are actually applying for. Somehow you need to know what they will say.
 * When applying in an area that is popular you need to accept that only the best application will be successful and that it is very unlikely that the panel will consider a person with whom they can not meet. This is particularly relevant for international applicants.
 * Emailed applications make quality presentations very difficult.
 * A ‘toss it in and see what happens’ application is very ineffective.
 * Use photographs carefully. Some look ‘staged’ and often the same clothing in them all gives a sense that these things all happened on one day, leaving the thought ‘what happened on the other days?’ Make sure they portray what you intend.
 * Be wary of how you portrait looks. An amateurish shot can look like something that belongs on a ‘Police Most Wanted’ show!!
 * Do some research about the school. Search their website and read their ERO report. They will give you valuable background information and assist you in tailoring your CV.
 * Visit the school before you apply, meeting with the Principal will give you valuable information and demonstrates thoroughness. It also makes the interview easier as there will be at least one slightly familiar face!
 * After the process is over, contact the Principal (in person if possible) and ask for feedback. It won’t change the current outcome but can change the future. I am always amazed at how few do this!!
 * If meeting and greeting and interviews are difficult (or terrifying) for you for goodness sake do something about it. There are a number of organisations that can help with these skills.
 * If you get to an interview - awesome, well done! Be prepared. You will be asked about the basics: Literacy, Numeracy, Curriculum strengths/weaknesses or preferences, classroom behaviour management and art/cultural interests. At the end of the day it will be the extra things that will stand you apart - most teachers cover the basics well. You need to have something more.
 * Most interview panels will give an opportunity to share something. It is best if this is parent friendly (rather than a teacher document) and is pitched at the class level you would be teaching. This helps the panel to see you in their classroom with the actual children.
 * Don’t be afraid to tell the panel about important matters they have not asked you about. You only get the one shot at this.
 * Finally, have some prepared questions. Make sure they are not all about money or time off! Think carefully because what you ask will reflect the depth of thinking you have carried out!