Teacher Talks- Principle Paul Weber

Today, Paul Weber from Elk Mound came to speak with our class about interviewing and what to expect in the process of applying for a job. Mr. Weber has 12 years of experience of being the principle at Elk Mound and was a very knowledgeable and informational speaker. Thus far, Principle Weber was one of the most important speakers we have had come into the classroom as he was very detailed in his speech as it helped us all understand the interview and job application process further. One point that he kept on making is that interviewing is something you need to practice at and with practice; you can become an excellent interviewer. Through his lengthy interview adventure 12 years ago, he noticed that many school districts ask the same types of questions as it became easier to interview the more he practiced and interviewed. He gave us plenty of tips to help ease the application and interview process.

Application Tips:

1.     Follow directions of the job posting

2.     Proof read multiple times

3.     Cover letter is your first impression; sell your strengths and experiences or professional achievements.

4.     The summery in your cover letter and the first paragraph on your resume are both equally as important as the other

Resume Tips:

1.     Put your certification on the top of the page

2.     Do not hesitate to put previous work experience or references from “Applebee’s” on your resume.

Deadline Tips:

1.     Do not call about status or position and talk to who is hiring

2.     If you are curious call the secretary and ask if your materials have been received and confirm that they got there OK

3.     If you are getting interviews, you WILL get a job

4.     If you are not getting interviews, you need to self-reflect on resume and cover letter

Interview Slots Tips:

1.     Lasting impression- Las slot not the first “fresh” spot when given the choice

Interview Tips:

1.     Research the school district
Go to the town

2.     Go to the school, find the parking lot

3.     Test scores are available online

4.     Do your research prior

5.     Write down questions from interview and make your answers in outline form to help you remember key words and remember your responses.

6.     It is OK to ask if you can have a minute to reflect on a difficult question.

7.     Artwork and portfolio typically occurs on second interview. Have I prepared digitally prior or have quick access to it

8.     Bring to first interview just to be prepared anyways if they ask to see it.

9.     When they ask if you have any questions. ASK something! What is the art budget? Ask questions related to the school district.

Overall Principle Weber gave us some awesome tips and guidelines to obey by when going through the job hiring, applying and interviewing process. It was a very beneficial talk.

He also suggested two books, that are a MUST read: Enhancing Professional Practice and Learning by Doing