The 8 Biggest Mistakes Teachers Make Applying for Jobs
Okay so we’ve all been there – a job post comes up on your screen that you hadn’t seen before and the deadline is that day!
Uh oh!
You quickly rush the application to get it in before 3pm and pray to Beyonce (she’s like God, right?) that it’s acceptable!
We’ve all been there – it happens.
In case it happens again, here is a list of the 8 biggest mistakes a teacher makes when applying for jobs. Save this for future reference – you’re welcome!
Let’s get stuck in…
1. Waffling
Too many of us try to ‘fluff up’ our applications with flowery language and complicated sentence structures. Try to keep it simple and to the point with the key pieces of detail and facts.
2. CPD Overload
Feedback from principals has been that they are receiving application forms from new teachers to the profession who may have completed up to 50 CPD courses when applying for their first or second jobs.
Again, think quality over quantity.
Perhaps consider the needs of the school you are applying for and include CPD courses you have completed related to the school needs.
Whilst it may be an impressive list – it is unlikely that you will be able to discuss all of these courses if asked in interview, let alone remember them!
I know that teachers are feeling under huge pressure for standing out in job interviews but be mindful that the people reading them will question your ability to have effectively engaged in such high numbers of CPD courses in such a short amount of time.
3. Generic Special Interests
Many schools are looking beyond the traditional extra-curricular activities, skills and interests to offer a more rounded curriculum to students. Think outside the box and consider what other interests you have that might be applicable or adapted to suit a school environment. For example, photography, gardening, baking, foreign languages, human rights (age-appropriate of course!) and yoga or meditation.
Teachers can often underestimate themselves and their experiences and how they might be relevant to teaching. Many employment experiences can be related back to the classroom so do consider what roles you may have had, either voluntary or paid, and how you can turn them into an advantage.
5. Not showing evidence of their abilities
When sharing your abilities in your application, consider using the P.E.E. acronym to strengthen your answers.
P = Point.
Make your statement clear like “I am highly competent in using formative assessment methods in my classroom”.
E = Explanation.
Explain why this matters like “This means that students have increased ability to self-assess and peer-assess learning which raises student achievement”.
E = Evidence.
Share a piece of evidence or give an example to back up your point like “For example, all lessons begin with a learning objective and progress checks are used throughout to assess the student learning”.
Psst… to read another blog post on breaking down examples, check out this article.
6. Not researching the school
This is a big one – and this happens in other industries too!
There is nothing worse than receiving a generic letter or application that does not specify or make any part of it relevant to the school. Research the school – go on its website, learn about its ethos – and communicate this in some way into your application.
7. Mistakes a plenty!
When you rush an application (we’ve all done it!), there will often be spelling and grammar mistakes as a result. Try to get someone to proof read your applications before sending them out!
8. Only focusing on the teaching side of things
As well as being a place of learning, schools are a workplace. Principals want to know that you are a team player and that you can be co-operative and communicate well with other members of the school community, as well as students.
Psst… to read another blog post on applying for jobs from a principal’s perspective, check out what Principal Niamh Cullen had to say in this article.
So there you have it – the 8 biggest mistakes teachers make when applying for jobs!
I hope you found it useful – if you did, share it with your friends or anyone you think might benefit!
We have plenty other great blog posts full of tips and tricks so do check them out HERE too!
Good luck!
Refer a Friend!
Give 10%, Get 10% with Rahoo’s Refer a Friend Programme!
The Not-So-Secret Diary of Rachel O Connor
My name is Rachel O’ Connor, I am in my 10th year as Principal of Ramsgrange Community School, situated on the Hook Peninsula in Southwest Wexford. I will begin in a new position as Deputy Director of NAPD on September 1st 2023.
The EAL Teacher – 10 Ways to Support Teaching & Learning
Supporting EAL (English as an Additional Language) students in schools can be challenging, but there are several strategies that can help. Here are some ways that schools can support EAL students.
Who is responsible for workplace wellbeing?
Wellbeing, a buzzword of late is defined by the WHO as a “state of complete, physical, mental and social wellbeing and not merely the absence of disease of infirmity”. Wellbeing is unique and personal yet something we are trying to contextualize to the workplace.
€49 EPV Summer Courses for Teachers
Our EPV Special Offer!
Course groups fill up quickly as we have limited capacity.
Please book your place ASAP to avoid disappointment!
3 Tips for Establishing Professional Relationships with Parents
As a teacher, establishing professional relationships with parents is crucial for the success of your students. Not only does it help to create a positive learning environment, but it also ensures that parents feel connected and involved in their child’s education. However, building these relationships can be challenging, especially when it comes to setting boundaries and maintaining a professional connection.
You may also like
The Not-So-Secret Diary of Rachel O Connor
The EAL Teacher – 10 Ways to Support Teaching & Learning
