Interview 1 (part 2)

In my last post, I shared that I was having my first interview.  After a 6 hour drive on Thursday, I was surprisingly awake and focused.  The interview was a blur, but I realized the importance of doing homework. I had my questions ready to go and learned a lot from them.  I also realized that I wasn't prepared for some questions.  This was a wake up call for more preparation on my part.  Overall, while I didn't get the job, I was able to get some feedback from the principal.  She recommended getting more leadership experience and actual teacher evaluations if I didn't get a job this summer.  

While I was somewhat let down by not getting the job, I have three more interviews scheduled next week.  One is only 16 miles from the last location.  Another 6 hour drive ahead.  

Getting the first job is supposed to be tough according to most people. I will just stick it out and trust that the right position will work out.  

One of the things that I realize I need is a network of leader that I can work with, bounce questions off of, and share resources.  I also need to start using social media more as a tool to learn and grow as I follow those who have been there before.

Interview 1

For the past few months, I've been applying for 3 to 5 positions a day. I've called principals and superintendents to follow up with no strong responses.  The normal response has been, "We've already got someone recommended for the position."  On Tuesday, I was completing a couple of applications and happened to return to an opportunity I had passed over several times.  That little voice in my head said, "you need to apply for this one."  The kicker is that it is six hours away from my current home.  Listening to the voice, I went ahead and filled out the application including sending a letter and resume directly to the principal.  I then reviewed the AEIS data before moving on to other things.  About 4:30 that afternoon, the district called and scheduled an interview.  So, tomorrow, I'll be driving six hours for an interview.  Looking back, I've allowed myself to get somewhat depressed at the lack of responses, but now I am encouraged to keep going.  This first interview may be the right one or it may be a practice for future opportunities.  Only time will tell. What I do know is that, with continued experience, I will be a great administrator who helps shape the lives of students for years to come. 

As I said in a previous post, looking for that first position has been a challenge.  Fortunately, I've had several administrators who have been supportive and encouraging and helped me with references and contacts.  I did make one blunder in that I failed to fill out the proper form with Lamar to get my certification.  This has held up the process and may be a reason there have been fewer responses.  As it is, I am simply going forward, trusting that wherever we need to be will be the right place. 

More to come after tomorrow.