Preparing for Your Future
Teacher Candidate Checklist Judy Mey, MAEd, GCDF EEXP3 Coordinator and Career Coach & Career Advisor (retired), Elyria Catholic High School & Baldwin Wallace University, Ohio
Craft and Perfect Your Resume and Cover Letters ü
Your resume and cover letters are essential components of your job search. Target these marketing documents to the specific position for which you are applying. Make final revisions and proofread multiple times before you apply. Seek advice from career advisors, faculty and professionals in the education field.
Create a Professional Digital Footprint ü
Make sure this is accurate and easy for employers to find. Sophisticated users take the time, thought, and effort to manage their footprints, and control information shared.
Take Advantage of Online Recruiting Platforms Offered by Your Career Center ü
Learn how to use this software to search and apply for jobs, as well as, prospect and connect with organizations of interest. It is important to keep your profile information and uploaded resume current.
Utilize Your Career Center ü
Meet with a Career Advisor to review application materials and discuss successful job search strategies as you apply for teaching positions.
Secure Your Professional References ü
Ask professors, advisors, supervisors, and/or cooperating teachers to serve as your employment references. Provide your references with a copy of your resume and keep them informed of the status of your applications.
Create Your Professional Image ü
Transition from student to polished professional—dress for success and market yourself with confidence. Be aware of your online presence. Make it a practice to Google yourself [put your name in quotes] on a monthly basis to monitor social media activity.
Enhance Your Visibility with Employers ü
Attend teacher job fairs offered or endorsed by your Career Center, and other on- and off-campus events to meet and network with school administrators.
Practice Interviewing ü
Schedule a mock interview with a career advisor, an employer, or a career mentor. Perfect your elevator pitch. Utilize practice interview software available through your Career Center.
Nurture Your Professional Network ü
Stay in touch with your professional network for support and encouragement as you explore post-graduation opportunities. Keep them informed of your job search. Remember, networking is a two-way street—be willing to support your contacts when needed or requested.
Be Flexible in Your First Job Search and Explore Your Options ü
Reflect on how you can use your teaching skills in settings other than the traditional classroom. It is better to teach in any place and any way rather than working outside the teaching field. Consider having career plans B and C in place.
Remember Those Two Important Words: Thank You ü
Thank those who contributed to your success.
Complete “The First Destination Survey” or Other Survey Requested by Your Career Center ü
Celebrate your success by sharing your post-graduation plans.
Under conditions of complexity, not only are checklists a help, they are required for success. - Atul Gawande -
24 American Association for Employment in Education
