Re: librarian personalities---
I just HAVE to share my tale of three job interviews. I am brand new to this
field. I have had three interviews since May for HS positions. I prefer
elementary, but there were no vacancies, so I have to take what I can get. So if
anything, I was toning down the Bubbly when I interviewed.
The first interview, in a small town, was conducted by a group of friendly
professionals from principals to teachers to aides. They had clearly thought out
their questions based on the needs of the school. I was honest, candid, and I
bloomed under the light of their immediate feedback. They joked amongst themselves
and with me. By the time we were done, I felt that I had done extremely well, I
was happy with the self I had presented. Was I bubbly? I don't know, but it
seemed an accurate representation of my enthusiasm, communication style and
creativity.
Second interview: at a large suburban high school with an excellent reputation.
Much smaller group, principal and librarians only, all very cordial in greeting me.
It was all very polite and reserved. Not only was I not satisfied with the self I
conveyed, but I also felt the school culture was not a good fit for me.
Third interview was a carbon copy of the first.
Guess which two districts offered me jobs?
I will say that in all three cases I endeavored to convey how I relate to students;
I believe they should treated as people, and my goal is always to develop
relationships with each student based on their need. By the time I share my
philosophies on respect and how you have to work with every individual in the
building to meet their needs, Bubbly doesn't really come across, but Warmth and
Enthusiasm does. (I believe!)
Bottom line: I'm convinced I would never want to try to present anything less than
my genuine self in an interview (or on a first date, come to think of it). There
is NO WAY I could work in a school culture that was a poor fit for me.
I say: Molly, be your best self!
Susan Waring
Unemployed until the contract is signed this week,
Vestal, NY
sswaring@stny.rr.com
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