Certain topics and professions such as education have a special value in today´s society. The way you interact with students, parents and co-workers is very important. So take a look at your CV and make a precise list of specific skills you have as well as methods you usually apply during class. Remember that examples about specific situations will constantly be asked. Some questions can be:
What do you do with a student who is always late for class?
How do you manage an angry student?
How do you deal with pressure and stress?
Do not forget that there is always a chance the interviewer will ask you if you have any questions, that is the perfect opportunity to show how interest you are in the position by asking the right questions and to get to know some important details you are particularly interested in, so make a list of possible questions you would like to ask.
The following questions are typical during a job interview for a teacher:
How do you manage a classroom?
The answer to this question reveals many aspects of a teacher: How you manage your environment, how you model, educate, control and monitor students. Use different examples to let the interviewer know how adaptable and versatile you are.
Why do you want to work with us?
You need to demonstrate authentic reasons why you want to work with them.
This question is not only about the school itself but also about the district. Make sure to research as many aspects about the school and district as possible. Look for good things the school has to offer, opportunities and challenges.
What are your strengths and weaknesses?
Strengths: It is important to be honest when talking about your skills, since you need to support your statements with real-life examples. Focus on the skills that are useful for the school and community. Give a very specific answer to this question and use a convincing approach.
Weaknesses: A teacher needs the right attitude in order to give the right impression when asked this question. Focus in whatever is a current challenge for you now, something you would like to work on. Use this question to talk a bit more about your plans and the things you would like to do in order to improve your teaching.
How do you manage discipline?
It is important to mention that discipline problems in your class are rare, since your classes are dynamic and interesting. Mention that you stick to the school discipline rules and always post them on the walls. Mention that you are strict when necessary but always have an appropriate behavior towards students. Let your interviewer know that most discipline problems will be solved in the classroom, and that a student would be sent to the principal´s office only in case of a serious problem.
For you it is important to listen to students and let them give their opinions in case there is a problem in the classroom. Examples of situations you managed in the past are vital when asked about classroom discipline.
How do you establish rapport with your students?
To establish both, an appropriate connection and environment, in the classroom is mandatory in order to get the best teaching/learning results so mention things you do to make students feel comfortable and how you pay attention to them, always finding out what their interests are.
How do you communicate with students´ parents?
This is a very important question for all schools. Make sure you have a method (assignment book, magazine, etc.) that helps parents know what is going on every day at class. To have an open invitation for parents is also appreciated by most principals.
Do you like team-teaching?
This question has a lot to do with your flexibility and skills to work in team. Be very positive about it, and talk about how it makes you feel and how it contributes in the learning/teaching process.
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