10 top tips for interview success
As programme leader of Bedfordshire School Centred Initial Teacher Training (SCITT), I have the pleasure of interviewing applicants who are ready and keen to venture into their teacher training journey. During the interview process, candidates’ potential to be successful classroom professionals becomes very apparent. Fundamentally, the key to being offered that sought after training place lies in fruitful interview preparation.
Here are my simple 10 top tips for interview success:
1. Pre-Interview Preparation
Be sure to respond to any initial correspondence from providers when you receive your invitation to interview. Confirm your attendance and pay attention to what is being asked of you on the day. Interview formats can vary. If in doubt, make a phone call to the provider to ask for clarification.
2. Be Informed
Know what you are applying for. Routes and training programmes differ and you may have applied to several providers. Training provider websites will give you key information that you can refer to at interview when needed. Make a note of any key personnel names and who to ask for on your arrival This will give a positive first impression.
3. Location, location, location
Make sure you know where you are going and allow yourself plenty of time on the day — check travel times and parking restrictions. Don’t assume you will be able to park directly outside the interview venue. Some sites are large and will require you to walk some distance. If need be, do a practice run to reduce stress levels on the day.
4. Be organised
Have everything ready for the interview the night before. Bring any required documents and supporting materials together in a folder. Having additional copies readily available for providers sets the tone that you are a well ordered individual. Remember key equipment; a pen, any teaching resources and a small bottle of water on stand by for dry mouth syndrome.
5. Dress to Impress
Have your interview outfit ready the day before to reduce stress on the day. Be you and be comfortable but consider professional attire to create a positive first impression. Smart and well-groomed is key!
6. Be Ready For Questions
Organise your thoughts and prepare some clear responses to likely questions that you may get asked. Why do you want to teach? What can you bring to the profession? What is your ethos and who are you as a person? It’s often surprising that candidates can’t tell you about their skills and attributes. Expressing a desire to work with children is not enough! Remember this is a chance to sell yourself and prove to the interview panel your commitment to their training course and the teaching and learning profession. Don’t be afraid to indicate your strengths and reflect on your areas for development. None of us are the finished article at an interview stage!
7. Answer Questions Fully
Understandably, candidates are often nervous at interview and either say very little or talk too much! Ensure that your responses to questions provide interviewers with a full reply. Keep on track when answering a question and if you lose your train of thought or are unsure of how to answer — be honest and attempt to give a considered response.
8. To say or not to say
How you communicate at interview is key! After all, teaching is all about effective communication. Think about your verbal contributions — consideration of articulation, pronunciation, pace, tone and pitch will provide an interview panel with a dialogue of interest suitable for the classroom. Non-verbal communication is just as important. Consider your body language and facial expression. Not always easy when you are nervous but confidence and a warm smile speaks volumes when you first meet someone. A handshake also represents a professional approach.
9. Showtime
Remember that you are ‘on show’ for the entire interview. Many providers interview in school settings. Make a positive first impression with reception and office personnel, teaching staff and children alike. Be friendly, attentive and polite at all times and maintain that professional persona.
10. And finally…
…get a good night’s sleep the night before, eat well and stay hydrated on the day. Breathe, stay calm, be confident and positive and above all enjoy the enriching experience of interview. Your teacher training journey is about to begin!
Good Luck Everyone!
