I went to that lovely job fair yesterday. It was one great big cattle call. I had two really bad interactions with two schools when the question arose "So what happened at your last school?" Then I realized I put "June 2008" on my resume instead of "present" as to when that employment ended (which it hasn't ended). It was so embarassing and I realized that the reason I'm leaving is going to be a sticky issue. You can't go to another school and say "that school/principal sucks" and saying "it just isn't home to me" or "I don't like the co-teaching model" just doesn't work. Sigh. Now I'm all anxious and nervous. Some districts have these lovely online applications where you have to give references. I haven't spoken to anyone from my first school in AGES and don't even know if I have a valid phone number for anyone. The principal also retired and I have no idea where she is. Sigh. I'm totally anxious now. The thought of going back to my current school for another year is killing me.
I do have a job interview Monday, though. It's at a school in a really bad neighborhood and it's self-contained LD/ED. I know this means rough times, especially in the school culture in general. I'm scared of making a move to a school and it being a bad situation, then having to stay for awhile...or worse, being asked to leave.
Argh...
My spirits are in the pooper. I also have to take a half day tomorrow to go to the interview which means less in the next paycheck. What's a girl to do?
Job search woes
June 1st, 2008 at 12:41 pm
June 1st, 2008 at 06:35 pm 1212345316
1) Get current phone numbers, etc. to put on applications. You want this information to be accurate, as that is how they will contact your former employer. If it is not accurate, it makes you look unprofessional.
2) Practice interviewing with a friend. Deliberately talk to strangers to get used to the idea of a stranger asking you questions. You know what kinds of questions you will likely be asked, so be prepared with answers. If the last job you had you left due to some disagreement, you can come with a polite and yet truthful way of explaining it. For example, you had a disagreement over policy or something. Most of all, don't lie, as that can get you fired instantly.
3) I know you said you are feeling low right, which is understandable in the job search process. Develop a feeling of self confidence. Surround yourself with people who love you and will support you and pump you up.
4) Do your homework about the organization you are applying to work at. What kind of projects, etc. are they working on? What does the job involve? During the interview and letter or application, emphasize how you can fulfill their needs. What do you have that no other applicant has?
June 1st, 2008 at 06:56 pm 1212346582