In light of the pandemic, we are all having to adapt to new ways of being interviewed, and this is no doubt present in teaching.

Schools are turning to new ways of interviewing and assessing candidates to fill their September teaching positions.

We all know how popular Zoom and other video web conferencing websites have become during the pandemic to stay connected, and with this in mind we have drawn up 5 great tips for success in online or virtual interviews for Teachers and support staff.

1)      Be presentable

You should treat an online interview the same as if it were a traditional face to face interview. First impressions count so always present yourself in the best way possible to impress the interviewer.

• Dress smart

• Men – wear a shirt and tie

• Women – wear a smart blouse

• Be well groomed

• Introduce yourself

2)      Prepare in advance

Don’t leave preparation for your interview at the last hour. By preparing well in advance, you will sound and feel far more confident during the interview. Failure to prepare is preparing to fail!

• Log in to the online meeting 5 minutes early

• Prepare for common interview questions

• Carry out research on the school beforehand.The more you know about the school the better

• Find a quiet, private, well-lit place, free from possible interruptions

• Have a list of questions ready to ask the interviewer regarding career progression, when they are likely to get back to you with a decision, salary, etc

3)      Be conscious of your body language

Effective body language can help you communicate positively to your interviewer. Following simple do’s and don’ts will make a big difference to the outcome of your interview

• Sit up straight

• Make eye contact as much as possible

• Don’t be afraid to smile and show your personality

• Avoid fidgeting

• Keep hands off face

4)      Be ready to answer some tough questions

The interviewer will have some questions ready to catch up off guard, so you must be confident and ready to answer some potentially challenging questions. Here is a list of some possible questions that you may be asked at interview.

• What do you know about our school?

• Why do you want to work in our school?

• Tell me more about your achievements in past teaching roles?

• How do you set up your classroom in order to create a stimulating learning environment?

• What resources do you use to make lessons interactive?

• Have you worked with students that have had SEN within your class?

• Can you provide me with an example of challenging classroom behaviour that you have managed and explain what methods or strategies you have used to improve challenging behaviour?

5)      Be positive!

If you go into an interview thinking that you won’t get the job, it will be hard for you to convince the employer otherwise. Remaining positive is a must
during the interview process.

• You’ll come across more likable and have a better chance of landing yourself that position you are seeking

• Helps you cope with the pressures that come with job hunting

• Feeling excited and enthusiastic could open the door to the next career defining move for you

• Ask for the job! If you are happy at the end of the interview, then make it clear to the interviewer that should you be offered the role, you would happily accept. It shows your enthusiasm and gives you the edge over other candidates.

Remember the chances are, you are not the only one being interviewed for this role, so it is important that you stand out. Follow these straightforward guidelines to nail your online interview!