One of the essential stages of the hiring process for foreign teachers in international schools is the job interview. It's a critical moment where you'll have the opportunity to demonstrate your skills and suitability for the position, and also learn more about the school's educational philosophy and expectations.
Many times, the interview is held online and has some basic guidelines that we'll share with you below. Use this information to prepare for your job interview as a teacher, make a positive impression, and stand out among other candidates. Let's get started!
This is an exciting step in your teaching career that can open doors to unique professional and personal experiences abroad. However, we know that a job interview can be nerve-wracking.
You might meet different people during the candidate selection process for a teaching position. You may be interviewed by recruiters or HR staff, the department coordinator for the position, and the school principal, for example.
The key to success lies in preparing in advance. For an interview at an international school, this becomes even more crucial, as recruiters will look for candidates who not only have the necessary pedagogical skills for the position but also demonstrate adaptability, cultural awareness, and a passion for education in a global context.
Before the interview, take time to explore information about the school, whether on its website or other sites.
Familiarize yourself with their mission, vision, values, curriculum, school community, and any special programs or initiatives they have. This will allow you to understand the educational philosophy and methods of the school you're applying to and answer questions more effectively.
Carefully review the requirements and responsibilities of the position you're applying for.
Identify the skills and experiences the school is looking for and think of concrete examples from your professional background that demonstrate that you possess those qualities.
Prepare specific examples from your work experience using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result).
This will help you structure your answers clearly and convincingly, showing how you've addressed challenges and achieved positive results in the past.
For example, if the position is for an elementary school teacher, you could talk about your experience with a challenge or situation where you implemented a strategy or activity at this educational level that had a positive impact on student learning.
While each interview is unique, there are some questions that tend to repeat in job interviews for teachers.
Don't forget that an interview is a two-way street. Prepare some questions that you can ask the person interviewing you to learn more about the position and the school's expectations.
This not only shows your interest in the school, its culture, and the opportunity that opens up for you but also allows you to understand more about the vacancy and prepare for the next steps in the process.
Try to present yourself in a sincere and enthusiastic way while remaining professional.
Focus on the most relevant information and, very importantly, be prepared to have the conversation in the language spoken at the school you applied to. If the position is in the United States or New Zealand, for example, the interviews will probably be in English.
Practice your answers out loud, whether in front of a mirror or with a friend or family member. This will help you feel more confident and secure during the actual interview.
Make sure to present yourself for the interview in a clean and organized environment with good lighting and no visual or auditory distractions during the conversation.
Your appearance is also important. Even if you're at home, dress professionally to convey seriousness and commitment.
With these basic tips, you'll be one step closer to standing out in your interview and, who knows, having an enriching experience working as a teacher abroad.
A job interview is a two-way conversation. Not only is the school evaluating you, but you're also evaluating whether this is the right opportunity for your professional and personal goals.
Preparing questions for the interviewer is completely normal and also recommended as it demonstrates your interest and commitment to the process. Here are some ideas:
Take note of the questions that seem most relevant to you and create your own list adding your personal doubts. Don't be afraid to ask questions and learn about the school's work and educational context. It's better to have as much clarity as possible about the job from the beginning so that you arrive better prepared if you're hired.
Many international schools are actively searching for teachers in different specialties to meet their demands for bilingual, qualified professionals who have a clear commitment to education.
If one of your goals is: "I am a teacher and I want to work abroad," you've come to the right place!
On the Edbinder platform, there are many job openings available for teachers of different subjects and educational levels. Edbinder is a gateway for you to have a unique experience as a teacher in countries like New Zealand, the United States, Australia, and England, among others.
The first step to living your dream of working as a teacher in another country is to find the position that best aligns with your goals. So, register for free on Edbinder and start exploring the available opportunities. New vacancies open up every month!
Take a look at the success story of a Chilean teacher who went to teach at a school in Minnesota, United States, and is living her dream experience. You can do it too!
Create your profile and become part of a global community of educators. Don't miss the opportunity to have an enriching experience and make a difference in the lives of students in another part of the world!
