Author’s Note: I’ve been absolutely miserable in two jobs when I’ve ignored the importance of choosing the right boss. Here’s one example:
After teaching at a very small, nurturing private school I decided to apply to work at the new, nearby public school under construction. Throughout the interview, I had many negative feelings about working for this principal but my desire (more as a mom—teaching there would allow my children to attend this new school) clouded my vision. During summer, I accepted the position and was asked to drop by the temporary office to pick up some paperwork. I explained to the school secretary that I would need to bring my children and she assured me that was fine. When I was involved in a quick conversation with the secretary, my six year-old son picked up a piece of chalk and started to draw on the chalkboard. At that instant, the principal walked in and yelled, “Young man, at this school, students don’t write on chalkboards!” That one incident said so much about her. Later in the school year, she made an all-call over the intercom, interrupting all instruction when she found a dusty shoeprint on the wall of “her” new school—the infraction was simply a child leaning against the wall for support while waiting. I struggled the entire year, but will always remember the lessons learned. Read on for tips in making the right choice of who to work for. It is absolutely critical!

Chemistry between you and your potential boss, or principal, should be taken into careful consideration. So even though she’s the one looking for a new teacher to join her staff, what does your gut instinct tell you about her during the interview? These feelings will tell you if there is a genuine interest in you as a candidate or if you’re involved in an exercise of the interviewer finding your faults. Is there an openness about her that will allow you to get to know her and adapt to her likes/dislikes? How does the prospective principal react to you asking questions? Watch out if there’s defensiveness or hesitancy and acknowledge the connection if you’re receiving positive feedback about your seriousness to find the right job.

Here’s a short list of just some of the things a boss can do in your life:

• Explain expectations or make you guess.
• Offer guidance or let you struggle.
• Give you space to make your own decisions or micro-manage every one you make.
• Make work fun and satisfying or demand a workaholic’s schedule.
• Provide opportunities or restrict possibilities.
• Allow you to have a voice or silence your opinions and suggestions.

Here are a couple of questions that will help you learn more about your prospective boss. Before the interview, think of others and decide what the answers really tell you about that person.

What attributes do you look for in a teacher?
This will tell you a lot about the principal and outline expectations.
What have you done as the principal that has worked best in motivating your staff?
This will give you a sense of the leadership style used.

Check back at www.newteachernews.com for Article 4, Suggestions and Strategies for a Successful Interview

Source and Recommended Further Reading: Kaponya, Paul. (1991). The Human Resource Professional: Tactics and Strategies for Career Success. New York: Praeger Publishers.