1. Job Searching for Teachers
Presented by:
Kim Meredith, LPC, NCC
Assistant Director, Career Counselor
(678)

2. Teacher Recruitment Fair
Provided by the Mercer Career Services Office
Thursday, February 13, Mercer macon campus university center 9:30 a.m. Sign-up not required Professional attire and Résumé required
See your Mercer BEARlink account for list of participating school systems.

3. Optional Event
SUNDAY, MARCH 23, Mercer atlanta campus AACC Building 1:00 – 4:30 p.m. Sign-up is not required
List of participating employers coming soon…usually Woodward, Marist, etc. Lots of Atlanta area schools.
Appropriate fair for all certification areas
Not all the employers that recruit at this fair require certification
*This event is open to the public. Mercer participants are given a chance to talk to recruiters first, from 1:00-1:30, before the event opens to the public
at 1:30 p.m.

4. A Marketing & Sales Tool.
Resumes
A Marketing & Sales Tool.

5. Your Résumé Must Be:
Crisp
Concise
Compelling
High Impact

6. Resumes
Should showcase your achievements or contributions, not just list your past jobs
Should tell the results or impact of your work
Should consider the needs of the employer (from researching) and tailor what you have to offer around their needs
Should use educational jargon

7. What is a High-Q / HQ Teacher?
Teachers are considered to be highly qualified if they have:
a bachelor’s degree
2) full State certification
3) demonstrated competence in
subject knowledge
teaching skills
From the Georgia Professional Standards

8. Resumes Should Stress That You Are High-Q!
TOP of your resume:
High-Q Definition
a Bachelor’s Degree
Full State Certification
demonstrated competence in…
subject knowledge
And teaching skills
List Your Bachelor’s Degree
Name of Degree
“Expected Month/Year”
Name of Granting Institution: Mercer University
GPA (if above 3.0)
Honors / Societies
Not Certified Yet, But List these:
“Passed GACE Content Exam, Month/Year”
T4 Early Childhood
T4 Middle Grades: “Math & Science”
Sell Your Competence!
Consider these sections:
“Qualifications”
“Strengths”
“Profile”

9. Sample Top ½ of a Resume - Shows Critical Selling Points!
Mercer A. Student
1001 Atlanta Drive ♦ Atlanta, GA ♦ ♦
SPECIAL EDUCATION TEACHER
Passion and proven track record for teaching SWD to excel!
QUALIFICATIONS
Experience in teaching collaborative classes during my student teaching which included students with EBD, SLD, ADHD, and OHI
Focused teaching strategies to meet the needs of SWD - resulted in a 30% increase in mastery of GP standards in writing during student teaching
Researched effective strategies to teach writing and reading comprehension to SWD for my Adolescent Development and Learning, Teaching Exceptional Learners, and Research classes at Mercer University
Awarded Teacher of the Month during student teaching for my commitment to helping students achieve mastery of GP standards for reading comprehension and writing
Received the following praise for my Analysis of Student Learning: “This is one of the best Analysis of Student Learning that I have ever received. You were very thorough with supporting details and you actually learned from the experience. Fantastic job.” Somebody Here, University Supervisor
Georgia T4 Teaching Certificate - Expected May 2011
Early Childhood and Special Education General Curriculum Consultative (P-12)
EDUCATION
Bachelor of Science in Education (BSED) Expected May 2011
Mercer University, Atlanta, GA GPA: 3.71

10. Classic Clichés to Avoid on Your Resume
“Planned, created, and instructed lessons”
“Assisted in the classroom instruction”
“Took attendance roll”
“Met with parents in conferences”
These are too
VAGUE!
To avoid basic, cliché statements on your Résumé, you must take the time to reflect on your contributions and achievements during your field experiences, practicum, and student teaching (and any other classroom experience you may have). It’s not enough to recite basic teacher duties on your Résumé. Really tell the value and reach of your contributions by writing content in the Résumé that captures the reader’s attention and shows how you are different than every other certified teacher in the candidate pool.

11. Two Ways to Customize Your Teacher Résumé! (and avoid those clichés!)
Use the PSRV exercise to help you write your contributions and achievements
Deconstruct the job description and use language from it to capture the reader

12. How to… Get to Your Contributions/Achievements
PSRV Exercise: (just an exercise to get your thoughts rolling)
Problem/Issue/Challenge/Situation
Solution
Result
Value
Let’s Try PSRV Now!
One of the most challenging aspects of writing an effective resume is one’s inability to think confidently about how they’ve contributed positively to various work, school, volunteer or life situations. The purpose of the PSRV exercise is simply to force you to think about your current and past experiences in a way that helps you synthesize your overall contributions. Complete this exercise on a blank piece of paper numerous times. Once you’ve racked your brain and come up with some problems/issues/challenges/situations that you’ve helped solve, you must decide which ones are meaningful on the resume you’re writing now. Which ones tell about your ability to perform the job you’re aiming for now? Which ones sell your skills/abilities/accomplishments to your next employer? Use those to ensure that your Résumé is customized to the particular employer/position you are seeking.
Note: the PSRV format is not recommended for the actual wording on your resume. It is simply meant to be a brain exercise. Once you’ve gone through the exercise, it is critical to form concise summary statements that represent the situation you want to express. Begin your summary statement with a verb (see resume verb lists…there is one on the Career Services web site or you can Google to find them all over the web!).
Example summary statements appropriate for use on a resume:
Initiated and grew an After-School Art Club providing students an opportunity to further explore/practice their art interests in a relaxed and fun atmosphere. Club has approx. 20 members, is well-known in the county and is now in it’s 6th year.
Implemented varied strategies and differentiated assessments meeting needs of a diverse group of students transitioning from local feeder schools, resulting in faster academic progress and assimilation into the school.

13. How to… Consider the Needs of the Employer
Deconstruct the Job Description (JD)
This means analyze the JD thoroughly.
Highlight key words and phrases.
Make a list of the top three things that the employer is looking for.
When you find job descriptions that are short and not informative, you must do your research through other means in order to learn about a particular school/county/employer. Through your research, make a checklist of the top three things that employer may be looking for.
Some JD’s are short and not very informative
Dig deeper.

14. It’s just not optional… If you want to compete.
You Must Study the Employer’s Web Site! Learn enough that you could deliver a thoughtful, fact-filled presentation to the employer, about themselves.
It’s just not optional…
If you want to compete.

15. Educational Jargon… Let’s think of some
Here’s a great web site to help you create powerful phrases using educational jargon:
RTI – Response to Intervention
Differentiated Instruction
Professional Standards
Small Group
Cooperative Learning
EBD
EIP
The list goes on and on…make a brain storm list of the things you’ve learned and will be implementing in your classroom. Go to your LiveText account to get some clues!

16. Which Style Resume?
Conservative
Creative

17. Move Education to Top

19. Resumes Tips for Career Changers
Use the “Rule of Relevance” to decide whether to include the experience in your resume
First, determine if your experience is in the Education field or outside the field (non-education)
Ask yourself if the experience in your past is relevant to your new teaching career.
EDUCATION
Experience
Relevant
Non-Education Experience
Not Relevant
Yes! Sell this in your resume!
Yes! Sell this in your resume!
List in the employment history, but de-emphasize it by shortening the content.

20. #1 Turn-off for recruiters…
Poor writing skills.
Poorly written to the recruiter
Mistakes in grammar or typos in any of your communication
Unprofessional looking in format
Being informal – use of lowercase, jargon, chat/text talk, etc.
Application must also be flawless!
Don’t start your with Hi how are you doing? Doesn’t need to look like your communicating with your friend. Be formal in your writing.
You will be disqualified!

21. Your Job Search
A positive outlook!

22. Job Outlook for Teachers
Source:O Net web site

23. TeachGeorgia.org currently has 270 openings posted.
Elementary Teachers
Middle School
Teachers
TeachGeorgia.org currently has 270 openings posted.

24. 100 Best Jobs of 2013 (U.S. News & World Report)
School Pyschologist - #13
Speech-Language Pathologist - #28
High School Teacher - #38
Elementary School Teacher - #45
Middle School Teacher - #52
Pre-School Teacher - #55
School Counselor - #59

25. GAE – Georgia Association of Educators
Leverage Your Job Search by Becoming Involved in a Professional Organization!
GAE – Georgia Association of Educators
PAGE – Professional Association of Georgia Educators

26. References Select your people wisely.
Ask their permission and keep them abreast of your search at all times!
A reference that’s not strong can hurt you.
(Despite having superior quality resume, cover letter and appearance.)

27. References List Should match font and overall look of Résumé
3 people is enough
Only those who can attest to your strengths as a Teacher!
Separate document from Résumé
Usually not needed at a fair
When an employer asks for references, you can generally supply a one-page list of 3 to 4 people who can speak on your behalf regarding your quality of work, level of integrity, and/or professionalism. When creating a list of references for an employer, keep the following in mind:
Suggested references include bosses, supervisors, team colleagues, professors, or directors.
Use the same paper for your reference list that you use for your resume.
Set up your reference page with the same personal contact information you use on your resume.
Use the same font and style as your resume. (Just cut and paste your personal letterhead used on the resume onto the references page.)
List 3 to 4 people with complete contact information including full name (spelled correctly), title, company name, company address including street or post office box, city, state, zip code, telephone number with area code, and address.
Make sure you ask permission from the individuals you list as your references. Prepare them in advance by letting them know the company(ies) you are applying to, the types of positions, and the most important skills related to the positions that you would like them to emphasize.
Select employers or professors who can speak well of your past work performance, either in a job, in academic coursework, or in a leadership positions.
Keep your references up to date on your progress and be sure to thank them for their support.

28. References FORM
Required by School System

29. Georgia’s Official Recruitment Clearinghouse
A web-based resource tool for educators in Georgia
Apply for teaching jobs in Georgia school systems in one place
Announces job fairs, information sessions and upcoming events
Set up a profile today!

30. Be attentive to the fact that some counties prefer their own application system rather than the TeachGA application.

31. What the Recruiters Say
For ECSP graduates: they are very interested in your dual certification!
For MIGR graduates: Math and Science are highly sought!
For all: Special Education Teachers are needed!
Principals have access to search through the applicants
They can see your resume, references, cover letters…everything!
Human Resources professionals are usually not knowledgeable about LiveText
But, principals might be.
You MUST Build Relationships with People! Network!
Student teaching in the county is seen as a plus

32. Job Search Resources Check out the articles below:
50 Great Questions for Teacher Interviews The questions principals ask during interviews are key to drawing out the personalities of applicants and selecting the right people. Prepare for your next interview by learning the questions principals might ask!
The Interview: Principals Share 30 Favorite Questions for Future Teachers Education World's "Principal Files" principals share 30 of their favorite questions to ask applicants.
Character(istics) Count! -- What Principals Look for When Hiring New Teachers A recent article on Teaching for Excellence discusses what school principals look for in the new teachers they hire. Which of 15 "can-do" characteristics is most important? Education World asks the Principal Files principals.
From the Principal Files: Principals Offer Advice to Job Seekers Have a plan, a portfolio, and a good attitude! That's just some of the advice Education World's Principal Files principals have for soon-to-be college grads looking for their first teaching positions.
Are You Ready for That Job Interview? It's that time of year -- school districts are recruiting for fall teaching vacancies. If you dread the interview process, here are some tips that can help you prepare and boost your self-assurance.
What Qualities Do Principals Look for in a New Teacher? What do school principals look for in the new teachers they hire? Principals' responses to that question might help others -- principals and teaching candidates -- as they focus their thoughts on the interviews ahead.

33. Consider Relocating!
Example – We recently heard from a rural Georgia school system who is planning to participate in our career fair this year for the first time – they are really eager to hire…specifically Mercerians! At least think about relocation, even if you come to the conclusion that it is just not possible for you and your family.

34. Consider Other Employment!
Certified Teachers are needed by
other employers.
Develop a List of 10-20
“non-School System” Target Employers
When conducting a search for alternate employers, use other keywords:
Adolescents
Children
Education
Mentor/Tutor
Coach
Curriculum
Education Leadership
Graduation
GED preparation
BE CREATIVE!
Think of other words related to your area of expertise…especially for career changers who may have several years of experience in another field. There may be a way for you to creatively attach your two fields. Example: A previous dental assistant who decides to become an elementary teacher may be able to conduct/teach dental education with a particular employer…orthodontics education for parents, etc. (this may not be the reason you decided to become a certified elementary teacher, but it IS A VALID CAREER OPTION)
For a list of ideas, see document entitled “Alternate Employment for Certified Teachers” (provided by Career Counselor)

35. Job Search Advice Job search through Google
For example, this site was found:
Search professional organizations
When using engines, use keywords other than “teacher”
Education
Adolescent
Mentor/tutor
Coach
Training
Continuing Education
Curriculum
Advisor
Instruction or Instructor

37. Can your attire hurt your teaching career?
Hello Recruiter,
My name is…
YES!

38. Wear an interview suit to recruitment fairs! (and interviews)
What do I wear?
Wear an interview suit to recruitment fairs! (and interviews)
And to interviews!

39. Teachers Are Professionals
Showing up at the Recruitment Fair looking like a polished professional will empower you and give you confidence!
Which of the people pictured above are not dressed appropriately for a recruitment fair?

40. Interview Suit Women Matching two-piece suit (pant or skirt suit)
Tailored fit (not too tight)
Color: navy, grey, taupe, dark brown, tan, olive or black
Skirt should be knee-length with no inappropriate slits
Wear hosiery with a skirt!

41. Interview Suit
These are all great!

42. These are unsuitable for career wear.
NO!
These are unsuitable for career wear.

43. Interview Shoes for Women
Hobbling around a job fair in shoes that are pinching your feet does not convey a professional image, so make sure your shoes are comfortable to wear on all kinds of flooring.
Even professional looking shoes get worn out. Don’t mess up your professional appearance by wearing worn out shoes. Shoe polish and some elbow grease can certainly help revive an older pair of shoes. Try it. But, if the shoes still look worn or tattered, replace them.
Do not wear worn-out shoes

44. NOT These Shoes! Heel too high.
These shoes are not appropriate for job searching or for daily wear in the workplace!

45. No!
Cleavage is Not Appropriate.

46. Interview Suit Men A two piece matched suit Solid or pin-striped
Tailored fit, including pants length.
Navy, dark grey, dark brown, olive or black
Briefcase or portfolio instead of backpack

47. Aim for the “most recommended” look on the far right.

48. Crisp Sloppy Neat Lack of Neatness Clean Well-Pressed
Can you see the difference here between a polished, crisp look and a sloppy, thrown together look? It’s all about preparation. Take the time before your event to make things look polished and crisp!

49. Interview Shoes for Men
No rugged soles for professional attire.
Not:

50. Details of Grooming Polish your shoes!
Perfume or cologne should be used sparingly or not at all. No odors on clothes. Don’t smell like smoke.

51. Yes, they are still effective.
Career Fairs
Yes, they are still effective.

52. Talking to Recruiters at Fairs
Be prepared with your WOW elevator speech
Practice it BEFORE the event
Try speaking to a recruiter at a county that’s not one of your top choices, FIRST
Listen to people in front of you or at other tables
Know your strengths and weaknesses
Don’t get chatty, but don’t feel rushed
Close your conversation by asking for their business card

53. Nervous? Having well-thought-out questions ready to ask can calm you.
Puts the “ball back in their court”

54. When To Use Your Elevator Speech
Career Fairs
When responding to “Tell me about yourself”
 Informational Interviewing
 Networking
 Interviewing
 Happenstance meeting with a new person
 Any social situation
Practice, Practice, Practice!
Consider using Interview Stream – a free web based practice interview site offered to Mercer students/alumni – available through your BEARlink account.

55. Invest in a Pad-Folio $10 - $50 Can Be Used At: Career Fairs
Padfolios: Preferred over a bulky briefcase. A small briefcase is also appropriate, but if you have no reason to carry a briefcase, don't; you risk looking silly.
No large tote bags, backpacks, etc. (especially those with loud prints) Stay conservative for your job search.
Can Be Used At:
Career Fairs
Interviews
Meetings
Conferences

56. What to bring to the fair
Mercer name badge & Mercer ID (Bearcard)
Several crisp copies of your resume
Enough for employers you want to speak to + 3
Extra copies cannot be made at an event
Paper and pen
Breath mints
Reference sheet
Lists at least three professional references
See more info, include an example by clicking here
Sample of your work (just in case, not req’d)
Career portfolio
Sample lesson plan
Do Not Bring Large Tote Bags and Heavy Outerwear.
Don’t forget your pen! You generally always need a pen at a recruitment event.
There’s no need to bring large tote bags or heavy outerwear to the event. There is not a place to put these things and they would be too cumbersome to carry throughout the recruitment fair. If your hands are full, then you are more likely to feel frazzled and look unkempt.

57. After the Fair
Follow up with recruiters within 48 hours with a thank-you letter/ . See sample.
Stay organized and keep track of who you spoke with, their contact information as well as materials you may have collected.
Communicate, especially, with the recruiters that you had meaningful conversations with! Give them a reason to remember you.
It’s a good idea to de-brief before leaving the event. Find a quiet place to sit and think about how the event went and who you need to follow up with. Also, make sure you have their business card or contact information!

58. View list of participating employers in your BEARlink account!
go to:
Go to your BEARlink account to view the list of employers signed up to recruit at the Teacher Recruitment Fair.
Password for establishing a new BEARlink account: toby
Student Login Link

59.
To download this PowerPoint (to access live links) or to access other career related documents pertaining to the teaching profession,
Go To:
Click: “Your Major”
Then Click: “Education”
Documents used as links in this presentation can be found on our web site, on the following pages:
- Click Your Major, then click Education
- Click Resources, then click Career Fair Preparation
- Click Resources, then click Networking

60. To-Do List Mark your calendar for 2/13/14 -- MERCER TEACHER FAIR!
Identify your teaching strengths…brainstorm and list them!
Research prospective employers
Draft your resume
Draft your cover letter
Get resume and cover letter critiqued
Purchase an interview suit
Identify your reference people and talk to them
Polish your resume & cover letter and tailor to specific employer
Complete and submit online employment applications
Write your elevator speech
Practice your elevator speech and handshake