Teacher Fair Tip #2

Excitement and anticipation are increasing as the list of employers attending Teacher Fair continues to grow. To see the updated list of employers attending, click here.

Employer List--The list will continue to be updated until all employer slots are filled. Individual positions will be posted as the date of the event nears and staffing plans are finalized by employers.

To help you determine the districts you would like to network and interview with, you should conduct some research. Researching employers is an excellent way to prepare for an interview. Demonstrating knowledge of the employer shows that you are genuinely interested in the organization, have taken initiative, and are ready to become a valuable member of their team.

Topics to research could include the following:

  • Do the values of the school system complement yours?
  • What is the reputation of the corporation?
  • How large is the school, and is it growing or shrinking?
  • What continuing training and staff development opportunities are available?
  • What is the demographic make-up of the school system and its student base?
  • (Additional questions can be found on the Employer Research Tip Sheet.)

You can gather information about potential employers in a variety of ways:

  • Employer Web Sites
    Direct links to the Web sites of employers are listed when available.
  • Employer Publications
    Many school systems publish regular newsletters that can be obtained in district offices or local papers.
  • Networking
    Conversations with current employees, retirees, parents, and students can provide valuable insight into a potential employer. Although this information is valuable, be sure to get multiple perspectives, as personal opinions can vary based on experience.
  • Informational Interviewing
    Identify people in positions that are appealing to you and contact them about setting up a time for an informational interview. You will gain insight into their career paths and their employers. The purpose of these meetings is to obtain information about the field, not to get a job.
  • Career Center
    The Career and Experiential Learning Resource Lab (LU 235) contains a variety of print and electronic information that is available Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Free copies of the AAEE 2008Job Search Handbook for Educators are available in the lab.

If you need assistance or have additional questions, a career advisor is available to help.

Drop-in Advising:
Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday, 1-3 p.m.
Thursday and Friday, 10 a.m.-noon.

Teacher Drop-in Advising:
Tuesday and Wednesday, 3-4:30 p.m.

No appointment is needed for drop-in advising. If drop-in hours do not meet your needs, call 285-1522 to schedule an appointment.

The best way to sell yourself to an employer is to know the facts before you begin. Best of luck with your employer research and job search.

Sincerely,

Jenni Smith
Assistant Director
Career Center