Why Am I Not Having Successful Interviews For Teaching Positions?
1. You’re Not Being Prepared Enough
Preparation is one of the most critical aspects of any successful interview. Walking into an interview without being fully prepared can make you appear unprofessional or disinterested in the position. Simply showing up and answering questions won’t suffice. You need to demonstrate that you’ve thoroughly researched the school and its values, and that you understand the role and its responsibilities.
Lack of preparation might include not having specific examples of your experience or not being able to explain why you’re passionate about the position. Be sure to practice your responses to common interview questions, but also prepare thoughtful questions that show you're truly engaged in the opportunity.
2. You Didn’t Research the School
In any interview, the employer expects you to know at least the basics about their organisation. This is especially true for educational institutions where culture, philosophy, and mission can vary widely. If you haven’t taken the time to research the school you’re interviewing with, it can be a major red flag. Schools want candidates who are genuinely interested in becoming part of their community.
Make sure you familiarise yourself with the school’s history, its values, and the curriculum. Understand their teaching methods and approach to student development. Doing this research not only demonstrates your commitment but also helps you tailor your answers to show how you align with their goals.
3. You’re Not Showing Your Adaptability
One of the top qualities schools look for in potential employees, especially teachers, is adaptability. Education is constantly evolving, and schools need employees who are open to change and new ideas. If you’re rigid in your approach and aren’t showing a willingness to adapt to new teaching methods or school cultures, it could hurt your chances of success.
During your interview, emphasise your ability to work with diverse groups of students, be open to new teaching strategies, and handle unexpected challenges. Schools want to know that you’ll be able to adjust to changes in curriculum, school policy, and classroom dynamics with a positive attitude.
4. Unrealistic Expectations
Unrealistic expectations can be another pitfall during interviews. For example, if you’re expecting a role that comes with high compensation, a lot of freedom, or a very specific set of responsibilities that don’t align with the position you’re applying for, you may come across as out of touch. If a school gets this impression of you during the interview, then it’s unlikely they will want to go further with your application. It’s important to manage your expectations and understand that every school, especially in education, has limitations and challenges.
When discussing the role and its responsibilities, make sure you have a realistic understanding of what’s involved. If the expectations are clearly stated in the job description, don’t shy away from discussing them openly during the interview. Clarifying what is expected of you and aligning those expectations with your capabilities will help set a clear understanding and prevent any future disappointments.
5. Maybe It's Just Not the Right School for You
Sometimes, no matter how prepared or qualified you are, the school just isn’t the right fit. It happens! You may find that the school’s culture, teaching philosophy, or even location doesn’t align with your professional or personal goals. This doesn’t mean you're not qualified or capable - it simply means that your dream school is waiting for you elsewhere!
If this happens to you, don’t get discouraged. Every interview is a learning experience that brings you closer to the right opportunity. Remember, it’s better to wait for the right position at a school that aligns with your values and goals than to force yourself into a role that doesn’t feel like a good fit.
Totally Teach are here to help you find the school that’s right for you! Check out our updated listings and apply today!