On 6/23/09, Bob wrote:
> On 6/23/09, Michael wrote:
>> On 6/22/09, Bob wrote:
>>> I'm seeking advice on 2 topics tonight...the value of
>>> following up and networking.
>>>
>>> First, following up applications. Like many others, I am
>>> becoming a tad frustrated seeking my first job. Awhile
>>> back, someone on this board told me that she was convinced
>>> she was hired because she followed up with a letter and
>>> resume to the principal...I suppose department chair is not
>>> a bad choice either. Is this worthwhile...thoughts? Other
>>> strategies, suggestions?
>>
>> Of course it is worthwhile. Good manners are always
>> worthwhile. Anyone who interviewed you gets a letter thanking
>> them for their time and reminding them how awesome you are.
>> You never want to leave a bad impression. That letter should
>> be in the mail next day at the latest. I see this as the same
>> as saying hello, please, thank you, excuse me, etc. Will it
>> always get you the job, of course not, but maybe it'll be that
>> thing that tips the scales or maybe you're not right for them,
>> but they know someone who you would be right for, which leads
>> to your next topic....
>>
>>> Now, networking. As I have worked for years in the
>>> newspaper business, I know a lot of folks with some
>>> influence. Politicians, school board members,
>>> superintendents, other people who are well-known in their
>>> communities.
>>> I have read so much lately about the value of
>>> networking...that in this tough economy simply applying and
>>> doing nothing else is so futile...what does everyone think
>>> about my listing say my best 50/100 contacts and sending
>>> them a brief note telling them of my situation and asking
>>> them if they know of anyone who might be helpful. I'm
>>> emailing and calling people I know well, but other folks
>>> are getting a more formal letter followed by a call. It's
>>> an idea...I got time...more time than I'd like.
>>
>> It can't hurt, but it would be better to ask in person don't
>> you think? You're asking someone to go to bat for you. The
>> least you could do is shake their hand and look them in the
>> eye when you ask. Half of the teaching positions I've gotten
>> are because I knew someone who got me in the door so I could
>> prove myself. The other half, I had to let my resume speak for
>> itself. You don't HAVE to know someone, but it does make life
>> easier.
>
> Jeez, thanks. I seek advice, I get talked down to. Guess I'll
> proceed with a strategy I've read much about and see what
> happens...if u think it's a waste of time, so be it. So far,
> simply sending in applications hasn't gotten me a job, so why
> not. As far as looking someone in the eye and shaking their
> hand, I've been in another industry for 20 years, I've been
> shaking hands and looking people straight in the eye for a long
> time...it's part of building trust. Thing is, professional
> protocol says u can't get to that step without first giving some
> a heads up (letter, call, email) to ask if u could meet with
> them. Professional people like when other seek their advice and
> counsel, but u can't just walk into their offices.

Where exactly did I talk down to you?

I don't think it's a waste of time. I actually said that, "It can't
hurt," which means that maybe it will help. I went on to say that
HALF of my jobs came because someone had strongly recommended me to
a principal. This statement was meant to imply that it is a good
idea. Of course, maybe it won't help, but it can't hurt.

When did I say barge into someone's office? Of course you have to
make an appointment. Essentially, you want to network so that
you'll find someone willing to go out on a limb for you and tell a
principal that they know you and that you're worth considering. Of
course email or call to reconnect and agree to meet, but that
question, the "I'm looking for a teaching position do you know
anyone who can help me?" question has to be asked in person. That
was what I was saying.

Look, I wish you the best of luck. You're looking to break into
teaching at a tough time. You asked for advice, I gave you mine. Do
with it what you will.

Michae

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