How to Interview at a Teacher Job Fair

Prepare for a short, effective interview with a board representative at a teacher job fair.

You are looking for a teaching position. Alternatively, you may be interested in learning more about state, national and/or international educational opportunities. Put your best foot forward and attend a teacher job fair. There, you will meet principals, superintendents, directors and other board personnel who can provide information about opportunities in their school districts. Be prepared for long waits in interview lines. These well-attended events attract new graduates and seasoned professionals. To create a positive first impression, plan your strategy ahead of time.

Things You'll Need

• Resume
• References
• Folders
• Thank you notes

Instructions

1. Find out which school boards will be at the teacher job fair. Select a few that interest you and research them thoroughly. Visit their online sites and note the number of schools, teachers and students in the district. Jot down information about any special programs, educational resources and challenges facing the district. If you are interested in teaching out-of-state or internationally, research the state or country. Be prepared to give reasons you wish to relocate. Do not simply say, "I will go wherever the jobs are."

2. Ask a trusted friend or relative to proofread your resume beforehand. Ensure that there are no spelling or grammatical errors. Double-check the information bits in the header, especially the mailing address, telephone number and email address. Re-read the work and volunteer experience sections of your resume. Use the information from these sections to prepare accomplishment stories that clearly demonstrate communication, teaching and/or leadership ability. Write out these stories and practice delivering them in a mock interview with a friend or relative.

3. Prepare yourself physically and mentally. Ensure that you eat properly, exercise and get adequate rest before attending the teacher job fair. You only have a few minutes to impress each board representative. He will not be impressed by a tired, haggard individual who appears to be going through the motions. During the fair, take frequent breaks and walk around the block at least once during the day. Have a healthy breakfast and bring easy-to-eat snacks.

4. Dress conservatively. The board representative will be analyzing every detail of your appearance and performance during the interview. She is looking for evidence that you will fit into the school culture of her district. Wear a black, brown or blue suit in a solid or pinstripe with a white shirt or blouse. Avoid cologne or perfume, flashy ties and accessories, and uncomfortable shoes.

5. Connect with each board representative. Do not simply introduce yourself, drop off a resume and move quickly to the next booth. Take time to make a positive first impression. Greet the representative with a firm handshake and maintain eye contact throughout the entire conversation. Deliver a well-prepared pitch, summarizing your most significant qualifications and achievements in the time span of an elevator ride. Prepare and ask at least one pertinent question for each board representative. Before leaving the booth, ask for the interviewer's business card.

Tips & Warnings

• Bring multiple copies of your resume and references.

• Send thank you notes to each of the interviewers. While handwritten notes create the most impact, use a business letter format if you have poor penmanship. Whenever possible, include specific information from the interview. For example, "I enjoyed discussing the use of graphing calculators in the mathematics classroom. If hired, I am willing and able to provide in-service to the other teachers in the department." Send the note within a day or two of the teacher job fair. If you are pressed for time, send a follow-up email.

References

• Washington Post: Job Fair Tips
• Employment Guide: Making the Most of a Job Fair