As we are fully engaged in the season of interviewing, for international schools, I’d like to offer a few suggestions on navigating your way through an interview to give yourself the best possible chance at landing that “dream job”. There are a plethora of international schools and all schools will encounter the process a little bit different. Before any interview, fully research the school (website, current teachers, etc.) so that you can make those important connections between your own philosophy and the vision of the school. Lets break down these tips between Skype interviews and in-person interviews.

Skype Interviews

1. First impressions are extremely important as most people will make their decisions within the first few minutes. This isn’t to say that even if you have a shaky start you won’t be able to redeem yourself, but make sure you make a solid first impression! I’d recommend rehearsing your greeting, calling everyone by name, and practicing your introduction. Many schools will have you begin by introducing yourself. Share your professional background, family life, as well as hobbies and interests.
2. Be fully aware of the background of your Skype call. A solid background in your classroom (or something in your classroom that shows solid learning or creativity), kitchen, or living room is probably best. Please avoid the bedroom.
3. Dress the part. Even though it is a Skype call and you may not even be at school, you need to dress the part and show that you are serious about the position. When in doubt, overdress for the interview. Rarely do interviewers comment if a teacher is over-dressed, but almost always they will take notice if under-dressed.
4. Skype interviews are quite stressful and bring people out of their comfort zones, especially if you are the type of person that relies on interacting with and seeing the cues of others. Remember to breath, relax, and take your time! Skype interviews are an opportunity to get to know you a little bit better. Smile, make eye contact, and remember to be yourself.

In-Person Interviews

1. If you plan on attending one of the upcoming job fairs, be sure to show up early, come prepared, and start practice your two-minute elevator pitch. It is in the first couple minutes that we are often the most nervous when it comes to interviews and presentations…practice, practice, practice!
2. As you approach the interview table and/or room, stand tall, give a firm handshake, smile, and address by name. This is the confidence (with a dash of humility) that interviewers are looking for in their teaching staff.
3. Thoroughly reflect upon and consider your values and philosophy of education. As you answer various questions, be sure that your answers always come back to those core beliefs. What are the few things that you really want to highlight in all of your answers and conversations? Collaboration…technology…inquiry based learning…student-centered, etc.? Be clear on your values!
4. All candidates will begin with the same general answer to this question: why are technology and innovation important in your classroom? The thing that you must do is intertwine one to two examples of how you have implemented that learning and practice in your classroom with students. Interviewers are absolutely looking for a solid knowledge base of pedagogy, however, more importantly they are looking for the practical application that improves student learning.

Best of luck as you go through the, sometimes, grueling and stressful adventure of interviewing. Remember that you are looking for the “right fit”, as this is the place you (and your family) will be living and growing over the next few years!