Hello! I am Tom Mitchell, Founder and Education Job Coach for
Teacher Express.
Do you sometimes wonder who actually reads applications? It is easy to ask this question, especially after you submit
your application and then hear nothing. I mention this here because these days, you have to take charge
of your own successful job search. By that, I mean you own all
aspects of it: finding vacancies, creating application materials,
submission of materials, following up with your applications,
etc. Plus, you own the results, whether the search is successful
or not. This is your quest and your challenge. You need an ambitious and proactive public relations campaign.
It is just like a sales promotion, and no different than any retailer
who must convince consumers to choose their products over others.
The labor market is every bit as competitive. How can you increase your visibility? How can you let others
know who you are or what you can do? How can you lobby for yourself
and/or have others lobby for you? How can you learn of job vacancies
even before they are posted? How can you get administrators to
review your application (resume) longer and more carefully? There are several things you can do. First, develop a professional
network that includes key individuals - insiders - in each district
where you want to work. They can alert you of vacancies and long-term
substitute positions that will be needed. They also can communicate
with principals on your behalf. This is a very important part
of your search. You must research the districts where you want to work. Get to
know them. Learn what their most recent successes are, and also,
what their challenges are. What is their mission? What are their
priority goals? You need to know these things so you can connect
your skills and experiences with their needs. When THEIR goals
appear in YOUR cover letter, they will pay attention longer. The
same is true with your resume; you need to appear to be just who
they are looking for! Finally? Pre-Apply! Put yourself out there! You will either "make
it" or "break it," but that's up to you! Most typical
applicants will not get this opportunity. We can help! For more details or to plan your strategy, call
the Coach and be sure to purchase your copy of Pathway
to Teaching today!
