Why Did You Apply for This Position?

In writing this blog over the past five years one essential item has surfaced again and again.  In speaking with scores of teacher candidates who have secured jobs - particularly in very competitive school districts - the one fact that has made all the difference in the world is that the most successful applicants took the time to learn something about the school or district.  I spent a great deal of time talking about the importance of this factor in Ace Your Teacher Interview and many people have written me and posted on-line reviews attesting to the success of this strategy in their job search.  Many have told me it was the single-most important item that got them the job of their dreams.

Here's an interview question that comes up quite frequently - one designed to see if you've done your "homework."

     Why did you apply for this position?

     A:   Dinosaur Elementary School has an excellent reputation in the community.  According to your web page your overall reading tests scores are up significantly and your math scores in third and fifth grades show significant improvement over last year.  You obviously have a committed staff and I like to be part of a winning team.  You also have a dynamic and eclectic staff development program for teachers.  In my conversations with some of the teachers they remarked on the variety of workshops that have been offered – workshops geared for their specific needs.  While the emphasis has been on reading instruction, there have been sessions devoted to math and science as well.  I believe every teacher, no matter what their experience, can profit from additional training.  That’s something else that has also impressed me about Dinosaur.

This is an opportunity for you to highlight your special knowledge about the school or district.  It signals to the interviewer that you took the time to do your homework – learning specific details other candidates may not have investigated.