English as a Second Language Job Interview Tips
Anticipating an upcoming interview can be a very stressful
time. Whether you have numerous interviews lined up, or you have waited weeks
for just one, it is important to remember that you have more to offer the world
than the job you hold. Prepare, do your best, and reward yourself for the
effort. If the job is truly meant for you, the next call will come.
Tip 1: Tailor your Tactics
Just as a resume and cover letter should be targeted to a
specific school, your interview persona should also be tailormade. Yes, being
yourself is the most important thing. However, it pays to know exactly what the
school is looking for. Does this school only hire young energetic foreigners?
Are they looking for someone to fill in on-call? Find out exactly what this
school is looking for, and do your best to prove that you are that person. (If
you realize before the interview that you are not that person, politely call
and cancel instead of wasting anyone's time.) The more you know about the
school, its students, and its curriculum, the better prepared you will be to
prove that your skills and personality match their needs. Before the interview,
visit the website, talk to a teacher, or share a coffee with a group of
students sitting on the stairs.
Tip 2: Express your Enthusiasm
Many administrators of ESL schools admit that an
enthusiastic and approachable personality is more important in a teacher than a
strong understanding of grammar or a structured lesson plan. Some schools even
prefer inexperienced teachers who are excited to begin a new career. Whether
you are a seasoned teacher or a recent grad, one of the most important things
you can demonstrate in an interview is that teaching is your passion. Provide
examples of how you knew you wanted to teach from a young age, or how your
students have enriched your life. Smile, speak positively, and use your body
language to express your enthusiasm for the position. Keep in mind that if
you're too over the top, no one will be fooled. Don't give them reason to
question your sincerity.
Tip 3: Anticipate an Audience
If possible, find out ahead of time who will be conducting
the interview. You can always call the receptionist and ask how many copies of
your resume to bring. Don't be surprised if a panel of three or more are
waiting for you in an office or boardroom. Panel interviews are common in the
ESL field. Teachers spend most of their working hours in a group environment.
Panel style interviews help administrators envision how you will handle stress
and random questions in the classroom. While you should maintain some eye
contact with the person who asks the question, make an effort to show that you
are addressing the group as a whole.
Knowing the name of those who interview you is crucial. As
best-selling author, Dale Carnegie wrote, "Remember that a man's name is
to him the sweetest and most important sound in any language." Address
people by their names both when you enter ("Thank you for inviting me in,
Maria") and when you leave ("I enjoyed speaking with you today Mr.
Shu"). It won't hurt to introduce yourself to the receptionist, and learn
his or her name as well.
Tip 4: Love to Listen
While the main point of the interview is for the interviewer
or interview panel to get to know you, make sure to listen carefully when it's
their turn. Good listening skills are very important for ESL teachers, as is
maintaining comfortable eye contact with a speaker. Many people talk over
others when they are nervous or if they think they have something impressive to
say. Teachers in general have a bad reputation for "one-upping" other
people's experiences. Prove that you are a born listener, by talking concisely
and politely in turn.
Tip 5: Consider Culture and Etiquette
While being on time for an interview goes without saying, in
some countries, being on time means being more than five minutes early. Take
time to look into the appropriate business greetings, attire, and body language
that are expected in the country you are hoping to work in. As well as being
respectful of the culture, prepare an answer as to why you chose this country
to teach in. If your reason is because there are lots of ESL jobs and you are
sure you'll find one, pick a different reason!
Tip 6: Question the Questions
You have probably prepared for the typical questions, such
as what strengths and weaknesses you have as a teacher, and why you chose
teaching as a profession. But, you should also plan for those that are less
general. An experienced interviewer will likely ask a few questions that are
directed more individually. Anything that stands out on your resume is a
potential subject for a question. For example, if you were unemployed for a
lengthy time, they may ask you why. They may also ask you about a unique
interest or volunteer experience and ask you to speak on how it makes you a
good candidate. For example, "I see here that you taught in Korea for two
months. In what ways did you have to adapt your teaching style?"
Interviewers routinely ask for teaching or real life examples, so have a few in
mind from your previous working experience. The types of questions you are
asked will also differ from country to country. If you don't have friends in
this country, use forums and message boards to find out some typical questions.
Do as the experts suggest, by practising with a friend or mirror!
Tip 7: Reward and Replenish
Thinking about the unknown before and after an interview can
be exhausting and mood altering for yourself and your loved ones. You can relieve
the stress by rewarding yourself on both sides of the experience. Before the
interview, treat yourself to a fresh haircut and a new blouse or tie. Remember
that the better you feel about yourself when you enter that room, the more
confident you will appear. It is also a good idea to have something to look
forward to after the interview. Plan to meet a good friend for coffee, or
reward yourself with a book or CD you've been wanting. Whether the interview
goes how you want or not, you'll feel yourself again in no time
EmoticonEmoticon