Networking Tips for Future Teachers
Rachel O'Malley
McKay Student Ambassador
Elementary Education
Networking is important, even for future teachers! Here are some great ways you can start networking as you prepare to enter the teaching field.
Attend BYU Events
Take advantage of BYU events that connect education students with professionals in the teaching field. Events like Dinner with a Principle and the Education Fair are great ways to meet with school administrators, learn about different school districts, and get tips for getting hired. Last year at the Education Fair, they conducted in person interviews and even offered jobs on the spot. At Dinner with a Principle last year, I was able to meet with several principals and get advice for getting hired and what they look for in teachers.
Upcoming Events:
Education Fair
Tuesday, February 24
3:00 PM - 6:00 PM
WSC Student Center Garden Court
Dinner With the Principal Event
Thursday, January 28
6:30 PM - 8:00 PM
WSC Skyroom
Build relationships with Mentor Teachers and School Staff
Your practicum and student-teaching/internship experiences are valuable opportunites to build relationships with experienced teachers and school leaders. take the time to get to know your mentor teachers, ask questions, and eat lunch in the teachers' lounge to help connect with other educators. Building these genuine relationships can help you learn about school culture, learn about future job opportunities, and find mentors who can support you with advice and recommendations when job hunting.
Build Relationships with Professors and Peers
It is also important to build meaningful relationships with professors and classmates. Professors have connections with schools, can provide recommendations, career advice, and information about job openings. Your peers are also future teachers who may become your colleagues, so share resources and encourage each other.
Substitute Teaching / Volunteering
Substitute teaching and volunteering are awesome ways to gain classroom experience and build connections with schools and administrators. These opportunities help you demonstrate reliability, responsibility, flexibility, and passion for helping teach students. Get to know school staff and leave a positive impression to help administrators remember you when a full-time teaching position becomes available.
Create a Teacher Portfolio, Linked In Account, and Resume
Start preparing before you begin applying to teaching positions. Create a teacher portfolio to showcase lesson plans, class experiences, and your resume. Highlight experience teaching on your resume. Create a LinkedIn profile to highlight your passion for education, relevant experience, leadership and unique strengths as a future teacher.
Networking is super important when applying for jobs and looking for career opportunities! Best of luck!
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