1. Talk and Tips About Interviewing Robert C. McCracken, Ed. D. Former Superintendent of Schools Giles County, Virginia Assistant Professor rmccracke@radford.edu

2. Talk and Tips About Interviewing Radford’s Reputation Knowledge Attitude/Behaviors Professionalism/Conduct i.e. lounge talk Courtesy Network

3. DO’s Listen and Talk (Balance) Bring a Resume(s); Be sure it is easy to follow, has current contact information and has past employers Scan the interviewers to determine if they have materials Check subtly to determine if they’ve read the materials or seem knowledgeable about you Make eye contact when you speak to the interviewer(s)

4. DO’s Be certain about your current status regarding licensure application Learn the term “Highly Qualified” as it pertains to your application Be ready to respond to a question about your time frame for decision-making Be HONEST about your application process

5. DO’s If you bring a portfolio or other materials, offer to share and be prepared to say, “I’ll be glad to pick this (portfolio) up at another time if you need time to review it” Think about an electronic version of portfolio highlights Be prepared to respond to why you are the best candidate for this “specific” job.

6. DO’s Be prepared to ask professional questions relative to the position Be prepared to indicate your flexibility and willingness to support students in multiple roles Be prepared to discuss a specific plan of communication with your students’ parents Be prepared to “think about the future” Develop Networks

7. Do’s Think creatively, i.e. “What would you do if he principal gave you $10,000 for any relative instructional project”, how would you respond? Respond to discipline questions with certainty, not “This is how my cooperating teacher does it” Think, breathe, and eat SOL’s and AYP, regardless of your assigned (interview) position Know blueprints and curriculum framework, regardless of your assigned (interview) position

8. Do Not’s Dress like you’re headed to a night club or a date; professional is the key Show skin Display excessive body piercings Say I like teaching because “I have the summers off”

9. Do Not’s Enter into political banter Assume to have all the answers Offer personal information, i.e. I am single and have a child to support, I am gay, I am straight, I attend the Methodist Church Falsify application, especially regarding any criminal records in the past

10. Do Not’s Over emphasize employment questions UNTIL you are identified as finalist; do your homework on the district regarding salary and benefits BEFORE accepting the interview Accept the position and then attempt to turn it down AFTER you receive a better offer or an offer at “home”

11. Conclusion Look, Act and Be Professional Know the District BEFORE the interview Talk and Listen Do a follow-up note to the interviewers (e-mails are quick) Be Honest

12. Questions What questions do you have?