There is an oft-given advice, that ‘you ought to do what you love,’ something that has become particularly relevant to the education profession where people are required to commit to several years of study and experience in order to secure a financially satisfying job. Even with the papers, however, it is no guarantee that you have unrestricted access to secure education jobs. To save you the hustle, here is a simple way of networking your way to some of the secure and financially rewarding teaching opportunities.
Recruit new people to your network constantly
Treat each moment you meet new people as an opportunity to expand your professional network. It may seem hopeless from the onset but is a step that will surely help you in the long run. If there is a platform that grants you access to people with similar interests, take the chance to tell them of your skills and experiences. Learn everything that you can about their jobs and leverage from their strengths. At the end, be sure to establish a lasting relationship with the few that you consider important by asking for their business cards or alternative means of maintaining contact.
Include counsellors and professors in your network
As a new teacher, you may feel utterly lacking when it comes to network connections. This happens because you either ignore or forget the contacts that you may have established earlier in college. Such networks are not meant for dissolution the moment you get out of college. Instead, keep in touch with your professors and counsellors because at some point they may have an opportunity that requires someone with your particular skills, training and experience.
Use the internet to your advantage
With the advent of technology, there are so many ways through which you can use the internet to establish more connections and earn the most coveted education jobs. A number of organizations have gone online to provide forums and platforms on which teachers meet and discuss some of the trendy issues affecting teachers and how life in the profession can be enhanced. Join such forums and platforms, ensuring that you are active but in a relevant and constructive manner. Besides sharing information, you will have a chance to expand your network, access new opportunities and learn what it takes to navigate your way to the top.
Attend regular training
Regardless of the number of degrees that you boast of, always remember that education is a continuous venture. Whether you have a job or not, endeavour to attend regular training in form of workshops and consultative forums. It gives you a chance to update yourself on the most recent issues in the teaching profession. Besides, it adds elegance to your resume and therefore increases chances of getting a better job.
Keep your resume updated
In this age and time, a resume is the only document that will speak of your training, skills and experiences. Ensure you update it from time to time, including all the workshops and training that you have attended. Whenever you are asked to present your resume to a potential employer, ensure the document gives you a competitive advantage before you even attend the interviews.
In summary, the teaching profession is so wide, with a number of opportunities which are highly satisfying and at times disappointing. To stand on a safer end, ensure you enhance your network with the help of these simple but proven tips.