Let's discuss, whether you just recently graduated from college with experience or without experience. Finding a job was never easy. Let's even say you did find the perfect job position to apply for, but in all honesty, most of us are either confused or overwhelmed about what to do in applying for that said position. After I graduated from college, I was literally cultured shocked. I was never prepared for what was in store at that time. I never thought of looking on the internet for a job for details or any job application related to teaching. I just made a resume, printed it, and went directly to schools to apply. I was equipped only with my guts and I was literally a fish out of water; thrown into the sea of applicants looking for an opportunity.
I wish I knew better. I wish at that time I knew what I was doing or looking for. In particular, I decided at that time to practice my profession. That is why, for all new teachers out there, I would like to present to you details or things you need to look for when applying for a teaching position. Viewers' and recruiters' discretion is advised. I do not claim to be an expert. This is all based on my own experience and research. Please read this post with a grain of salt and let's get started.
Disclaimer: This post is for entertainment purposes ONLY. I do not claim to be an expert on anything. This is all based on my opinion and research. So take what resonates and leave if you're not interested. Spread love and not hate.
1. Research is your bestfriend
I could not give further emphasis on this, but right now, research engines are your best friend. You might find the teaching position via some job searching websites. Everything is there regarding the teaching position, the school, and the team you will be part of, but believe me, it is not enough. Job postings are usually intended to guarantee that a lot of prospective applicants will apply. If you are swayed by the job description, go ahead, but guarantee that as much as possible you do a background check on the institution and the role. It is not to find negative details; it is just that you need to assure yourself that you know what you are even looking for.
2. Consider your Teaching Style
As a teacher, nobody knows you better than yourself. Whether your field of teaching is for young learners, young adults, adults, or others, knowing your teaching style is important. There are a lot of schools that have different styles or fields of specialization regarding curriculum and educating their students. For example, if you are applying for a teaching position in a Christian school, likely the teaching style is cored to Christian values. Another example is that you are applying for a teaching position in an international school. Expect that the teaching style might be adapted from an international curriculum or core to advance learning. So, as a teacher, you need to know if your style suits the school or position you are applying for.
3. Community Involvement
There is no harm in visiting the school in life to see what it looks like. Other than observing the beauty of the school, try as well to observe its surroundings. How long does it take to get from point A to point B by transportation? If you are a teacher, you will be given a perspective on your own adjustment at this point. You can also get to know the overall vibes and ambiance of the school. You can generally ask yourself if you fit in.
4. Options are better
This is the common mistake of all first-time teacher applicants; it is like saying yes to the first job offer that has been provided. Yes, you might be new or you think your experience as a teacher is not enough. But believe me, after thinking, strategizing, and deliberating, your option is wise. If at some point you proceed to apply and get a job offer, it is not wrong to ask for time to review it. Remember, you are offering your services to them, but you are only human. There should be a literal understanding between you and the employer at this point; you can deliver but with your specific skills. Willingness to learn and adapt is an innate human skill, but teachers are human, too. We can only do much for this profession. So review the offer, and look for details that will allow you to grow and have a balanced work life. Nobody wants a burned-out teacher at the end of the school year.
Everybody wants to be employed. No matter how big or small the position might be, it is better than nothing. But as teachers, we need to consider all aspects of our application. We need to find the best fit for our skills, styles, qualifications, and attributes. Do not go for it when your gut tells you another story. As the world is now more advanced and aware of how things can be easily informed, use that to your advantage. At the end of the day, you will be working for yourself and nobody else.
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