You've applied.... now what?

Unfortunately for me, nepitism plays a bit part in my board.  It's all in who you know.  The postings have come out and I have sent in my resume and cover letter (stolen by a co-worker, but that's a whole other post), and now it's time to sit and wait.... or is it?

I have talked to many supply teachers who have been on the supply list for MANY years (one girl has been trying to get a permanent position for 11 years!) and for whatever reason, they just aren't getting anything.  What I have learned is that these people aren't doing what it takes to get their name out there and be known.

At our board's staffing meetings, the principals literally sit around a table with their top picks written down.  One by one (however they decide what order they go in), they sit around and say who they want for what position.  The rest of them cross those people off their lists.  When it comes to a principal that I know, I want to make sure that I am standing out in their heads and in the forefront of their thoughts as someone who deserves a job. 

In the past, I have gone around and talked to different principals, but I'm not sure I've done anything memorable.  Nor did I have any real background to show for it.  This year, things are different.  I have some solid experience behind me and I have my secret weapon - my skills sheet.

Skillsheet Posted

I have changed out information that is too personal and identifying to post online.  I also put a small black and white picture of myself up in the right hand corner so that principals can keep the sheet on file and bring it with them in the future and remember me.
Today, I had the opportunity to speak to a different principal at a different school at which I was supplying this morning.  I had spoken to her over email a couple of years ago, but this was my chance to get in there and meet her personally.  There are 2 LTO's at this school next year as well as 5 permanent positions!  It's a very high needs school and there won't be many people who would want to teach grade 7 or 8 there, but I will!  I met with her, gave her my sheet, she made a few notes and put it directly in her staffing binder to have with her on the 22nd when all of the principals meet for the final, external hiring meeting.

So now think about it.... am I at an advantage over people whose names will just appear on a list generated by HR?  Absolutely!  Will I stick out in her mind during this process?  Without a doubt!

It took about 10 minutes to generate and 20 seconds to print off and bring to her.  You can totally do this.  Get out there and get recognized.  Hopefully on the 22nd, my secret weapon (as well as my skills) will help me be a permanently employed teacher!