Episode Details

Last week we introduced the topic of tips for seeking a new education position, and Will and Jen shared four of ten tips, they included:

1. Update your resume.
2. Talk to your leadership at the appropriate time.
3. Connect with your network.
4. Research your prospects.

This week, you will find six more tips and some practical ways to plan in advance for transitions. Here are the remaining 6 tips:

5. Demonstrate your excellence.

This should go without saying, but you should be good at your present job. In fact, you should be performing with excellence if you plan to be considered to lead others at a greater capacity. Promotions should not be an advancement out of something you’re not good; instead, promotions should be an acknowledgement of the capacity you’ve developed for doing more.

For instance, if you’re currently an assistant principal looking for a principal position, continue being a great assistant principal. Hit your goals for managing and improving student behavior. Ask for opportunities to take on othe responsibilities in instructional leadership. Be involved in civic and community organizations. In doing so, you are modeling the kind of leadership that demonstrates your excellence and gives us other reasons to recommend you for future openings.

6. Make introductory calls/emails.

Leaders are people just like you. We remember people who take time to introduce themselves, not the ones who don’t. A short introduction with an attached resume is a great way to let others know you are available when a new position may be opening. I have observed leaders who have not voiced interest in openings being passed over when they assumed the others must instinctively know they are qualified and ready for a promotion. Don’t make this mistake. It is our own responsibility to communicate the goals, dreams or aspirations we have. No one else should be expected to guess or discern that on your behalf. Keep your communication short and professional. Rehearse it ahead of time if you want to avoid miscommunication.

7. Subscribe to a variety of updates.

Many state and national associations for leaders have places on their websites where you can subscribe for job openings. 

In Will’s state, the Oklahoma State School Boards Association provides a place on its website for leaders to post openings.

You can also use free services like LinkedIn Career Searches, Indeed.com, or Zip Recruiter as sites where you can enter keywords that provide updates on current positions being posted by location or region.

8. Create a backward timeline.

Let be really practical here. If you’re looking for a move in a certain position by the end of a calendar year or the end of a school year, then start with the end date in mind, and work your way backwards to the present. Make a list of all the steps, conversations, and deadlines that would need to be met in order to see this move happen. Create a calendar outlining each of those benchmarks. Include the present responsibilities you also manage along that timeline to see where conflicts or other priorities may require you to reconsider due dates.