Job Search

JOB SEARCH STRATEGY

Make a list of skills and experience--
be realistic & prepare to discuss what you have to offer.
Focus your search --
define career goals, consider multiple jobs, &be honest with yourself about what is the right ‘fit’.
Stay positive--
rejection is a part of the process. Rejection does not mean you are not qualified. Often politics and ‘fit’ are an important aspect for the potential  employer and employee. Rejection provides practice and helps you get closer to the job that is right for you.

Set
objectives--

be persistent & engage yourself in the professional community through organizations.

NECESSARY MATERIALS
Resume and/or Curriculum Vitae
Cover Letter
Recommendation Letters
Statement of Teaching Philosophy
Portfolio
Teaching Credentials (if you apply for teaching university)


INTERVIEW

Interview Preparation Prepare for the Interview
Practice. Do a mock interview.
Do your research! Know about the job requirements, expectations, the department, colleagues, the school, etc.
Prepare potential questions regarding the institution.
Be prepared to explain everything on your resume.
Get plenty of sleep the night before.
Dress nicely.
Bring materials such as your resume, transcript, references and possibly a portfolio.
Arrive at least 10 minutes early.

Interview

Answer questions and try to remain calm.
Make eye contact and communicate clearly and directly.
Be yourself.
Show interest in the position, the people you meet and the institution.
Ask questions.
After the Interview
Send a thank-you note to the interviewer (be sure to proofread it!).
Record questions from the interview to help you prepare for future interviews.

TRUISMS ABOUT JOB SEARCH FROM DR. TARDY
"Job ads do not tell the whole story".
"Hiring decisions are complex".
"Searches are unpredictable, and mostly out of your control".


Helpful Resources for the Job Search  
UC Santa Cruz Career Center http://www2.ucsc.edu/careers/handouts/job_web_sites/
Transitions Abroad Information on Jobs in ESL http://www.transitionsabroad.com/listings/work/esl
TESOL E-Placement Bulletin www.tesol.org  (Job Finder)
The Chronicle of Higher Education Job Advertisement
(Faculty Positions -> Humanities -> ESL)
http://chronicle.com/jobs/
Language Magazine Job Postings http://www.langaugemagazine.com
Linguistic Funland Job Postings www.linguistic-funland.com/tesljob.html
ESL Directory www.esldirectory.com
ESL Employment www.eslemployment.com
English Job Maze www.englishjobmaze.com
The American Association of Intensive English Programs www.aaiep.org