Melbourne University 2009 Interview Techniques

1. Melbourne University 2009Interview Techniques

2. 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

3. 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

4. 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.

5. 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 (21st Century Learning)

6. 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?

7. 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

8. 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

9. 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)

10. 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

11. 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

12. 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

13. 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.

14. 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