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Be prepared; Teacher job fairs can be productive if you do your homework

By Jason Lee, Tribune Media Services, Source: Tribune Media Services

If you've ever attended a teacher job fair, then you know how challenging the experience can be. Hundreds of teachers in one place, at the same time, all with the same goal in mind: Land a teaching job.

However, teacher job fairs are not a waste of time. The trick is to not assume you’re going to stroll out of a job fair with a signed contract, but rather think of it: at the very least: as an excellent opportunity to make contacts that could likely pay off in long run.

So, if you’re one of the many teachers vying for a job, you’ll need to be prepared. Follow these tips to get to the head of the class:

Before the fair

Do your research: Get to know the school districts you are interested in and what they are looking for.

Is your resume ready?: Every job seeker needs a living resume that changes and grows with them. A good resume gets your foot in the door and should be ready when you need it. Consider using your college or university’s career resources department to perfect your resume.

Practice your personal infomercial: Prepare a 30-60 second introduction of yourself that includes: your name; teaching field; teaching objective; your knowledge of the school district; and your teaching experience. Practice your introduction with a friend or career counselor.

During the fair

Dress the part: Remember, first impressions are everything. Business casual dress is essential if you are seriously looking for an interview or to make a great initial impression.

Be confident: Walk directly up top a recruiter and offer a firm handshake. Even if you are unsure whether the school is hiring in your teaching field, take a chance and talk to them anyway. You have something to offer, and these recruiters want to know that. Eye contact is also a must.

Ask questions: It’s good to gain more information for yourself, as well as to show them that you are interested in who they are and what they do.

Get contact information: Names and contacts are important. Ask for a business card, or write down contact information. If you land an interview, don’t forget to remember who you visited with at the fair.

Take notes: After you have visited with an employer, jot down what it was that you like about the conversation and any other questions that may not have been answered.

After the fair

The follow up: Conduct any follow-up that was requested by the school districts you met with. If they ask you to fill out an application or submit your resume online, take the time to do it.

Thank you: Contact the recruiters highest on your list and thank them for their time. Sending a thank you note to the recruiters you spoke with is a nice touch. They will know you are very interested, driven and excited to become a part of their organization.

© 2009, Tribune Media Services