Research, research, research:

• Find someone from the inside through networking who can give you first hand information.
• Visit the school website: what are their highlights, what do they seem to value, what can you contribute toward their mission and vision and goals?
• Check with the local Chamber of Commerce--they may have community materials that highlight the schools.
• If possible, do a test drive to the interview site—it gives you an opportunity to plan your travel time and become familiar with surroundings.
• DO NOT USE THE INTERVIEW TO GET TO KNOW THE SCHOOL AND COMMUNITY

• Anticipate questions: closed and open ended.
• Review your resume and compare to the vacancy notice or ad.
• Compare your background to what your research revealed.
• Participate in mock interviews.
• Take advantage of career counseling services.
• Make multiple copies of interview materials.
• Know the name and position of the interviewer.
• Begin a job interview log.

• Introductory: small talk, establishing rapport, making a connection (first impressions)
• Job Overview and reviewing applicant’s background
• Questions by interviewer
• Questions by interviewee
• Closure
• 30-60 minutes average length

• Dress appropriately; be careful about wearing strong scents.
• Maintain eye contact.
• Use interviewers name.
• Offer confident handshake.
• Don’t be late.
• Don’t ask about salary, benefits during first interview.
• Take notes.
• Follow-up with thank you note, mailed that day if possible.
• Clarify understanding.
• Be sensitive to your own body language.
• Don’t say anything negative about former employers or colleagues.
• Turn off your cell phone.

Interview dress is still very traditional!

Women

- pantsuit or dress

- minimal jewelry

- avoid high heels

- clean, groomed hair and nails

- avoid strong perfumes or fragrances

Men

- suit or sports jacket and tie with both

- well-groomed beard or mustache

- avoid strong colognes

- clean, groomed hair and nails

Behavioral:	Series of behavioral based questions that will draw out past performance or experiences: a good indicator of future performance.
Ex:	“Tell me about a time in your past position when you...?”

Traditional:	Ex:	“How would you describe yourself?”
		“Why did you leave your last job?”
		“What are your long range and short range goals and objectives?”

A good interview will probably be a combination of both

• Critical thinking skills
• Evidence of being a self-starter
• Willingness to learn and develop
• Self-confidence
• Teamwork values
• Professionalism
• Loyalty and integrity

• "In the first five minutes of the interview, I will notice your body language, articulation, personal appearance, eye contact and your handshake."
• "Later I will find out where you did your student teaching, what your GPA was and where you went to school."
• "After the interviews are complete, I will wonder if you will compliment me and help me complete the goals and objectives set up by my own boss or board."