As a job seeker, how do you stand above the crowd when making an application?
What can you do to make a difference when a preschool or school views your CV/resume?
If you read my last blog post (5 Tips for Teaching Applications in the UAE), you know that I do not believe in magic wands. I do, however, believe in preparation. Any one of the 100+ teachers that I have coached and mentored over the last few years will tell you my basic mantra - ‘preparation, preparation, preparation.'
While preparing for a job application in early years, here are the five P’s of great ideas.
Be proactive. Proactivity requires self awareness. Think about your skills and talents and get-to-know how to use and develop them.
Pin down your strengths and weaknesses. It is good to know your strengths and there are several assessments available to help you identify them. But what about your weaknesses? We are all blind-sided in one way or another. Look out for some of your weaknesses and learn to combat them. For example - procrastination, lack of focus, being disorganised. For a free strengths survey, sign up here: STRENGTHS SURVEY
Personal leadership. This is a process of leading yourself, not waiting for others to tell you what to do and how to do it (unless they are qualified coaches, mentors, etc, but even then, it still comes down to making your informed decisions). Personal leadership can be about living a values-led life. What are YOUR values? What is YOUR vision for yourself? This need not be daunting or overwhelming. It is a process of self discovery so that you can launch off from a secure position to make those applications confidently.
Persuasive CVS and resumes. It's essential to represent yourself on paper both professionally and clearly. There are more ways to do this than writing a CV. For example, a professional bio is an alternative.
Portfolio. Portfolios will make you stand out. A cut-above the rest. A coherent way for you to tell your professional story and showcase your teaching practice. As someone who interviews teaching staff, I’m all for it. It is convenient and straight to the point.
To know more about preparing your CV or portfolio, contact me for a complimentary strategy call. After all, it’s part of being proactive.
Here is a link to my calendar: CLICK HERE FOR CALENDAR
See you soon (virtually).
Patricia Mezu M.A.Ed., is an early years advisor coach and mentor.