Melbourne University 2009 Interview Techniques

Application Process Know your resume thoroughly Do your reading –VELS, PoLT, etc Think about strengths, skills and knowledge that you can offer the position and the school

Do your homework Try to get as much information about the position/school as you can Visit (under estimated) Read the AIP, Annual report etc Web page This sort of local knowledge can often make a difference

Do your homework Choose referees carefully –They will need to be able to comment on your professional ability & demonstration of KSC –Mix of male & female? –Let them know when the interview is and ensure they have a copy of your application.

Rehearse What questions might the panel ask? –Why did you apply for the position / school? –Why are you the best person for the job? –What are your strengths and weaknesses? –Scenario: It is difficult to predict the exact scenario but try to think about the role you’re being interviewed for Classroom Teacher Position –Student Management –Engaging Students in your subject area(s) –Catering for students with mixed abilities within your classroom –Technology (21 st Century Learning)

Rehearse Practice your prepared responses (if required) Have a list of things you want to say and questions you want to ask. Visualise the introductions, your final statement, your exit Don’t be half hearted – you only have a small window of opportunity be clear & concise Organise a mock interview with your friends/colleagues?

The day of the interview First impressions count!! What clothes will you wear? Consider the long trip: –change after you arrive –Stay with friends the night before Get to the venue well before time Ensure you don’t feel rushed

The introductions Walk in confidently Smile Eye contact Introduce yourself (listen for names of panel) Always be courteous Carry materials in left hand so you can return handshake without fumbling

Interview Structure No one ‘structure’ or format used Generally: –Most will hand you a question at a time or let you read all the questions when you arrive –Break near the end of the interview –Generally each panel member asks a question –Panel members should take notes (MPB)

During the interview Remember some panel members are more nervous than you Be honest and yourself Listen! Scan the panel Be aware of your body language Think about your posture Humour An interview is a two way process

During the interview Support answers with examples & most importantly what were the outcomes Think before you start your responses (don’t rush). Re-read the question if needed When a panel member asks a question be sure to look at that panel member initially and then scan Answers need to be long enough to cover the topics and short enough to hold interest

During the interview Engage the panel. It’s OK to have documents, student work samples that you refer to Most people only hear 30% of what you say – the rest is interpersonal skills Speak positively of past experiences

During the interview Acknowledge the contributions of colleagues - you’re a team player If you are not sure what the question is asking seek clarification End as you began – smile, eye contact & shake hands & a few positive words Remember – principals will understand that your teaching experience is limited.

What next? If you miss out on a position be positive What can I learn from the experience Get feedback Sometimes missing out is a good thing – it might not have been right for you