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HBCU Careers Magazine
37
As a K-12 public school system, we are in the business of
preparing students to be successful as 21st century citizens,
and the educators and staff members who support this
goal are critical to the success of that effort. When we
are looking to hire new teachers to our district, there are
certain qualities that we look for, and these professional
qualities are not specific to the education profession.
Whether a candidate is a recent graduate, or an experienced
professional, successful candidates across professions share
common traits:
Coachable
Education is an ever-changing field, so when interviewing
a candidate, we do not expect them to have a library of
standards memorized or to be able to recite technical
answers. Realistically, teachers have access to many
resources when they are planning lessons or educational experiences for their students. Once hired,
we will communicate the strategies and resources that our district has identified, with the expectation
that they will be carried over into the classroom. What we are really looking for is an individual who is
willing to listen to recommendations from their supervisor, and who can transfer feedback to their work
in the classroom.
A coachable employee is valuable in any profession. Being a flexible, reflective and responsive
employee will make you valuable, because you will be able to withstand changes within your industry.
Effective Communicator
Collaboration across classrooms, schools, districts, and states, is becoming more common through the
use of tools like Skype, Google Drive, Drop Box, Twitter, Today’s Meet and others. Administrators are
looking for teachers who are able to use these tools for their own professional development, as well as
to provide opportunities for their students to collaborate. Refined verbal and written communication
skills are necessary to be successful in these situations.
While we understand that organizations are effective because of many different personality types,
being able to clearly express your ideas is nonnegotiable. Employees need to be able to navigate
situations between clients, coworkers, and other stakeholders. A lack of communication or
miscommunication can result in strained internal and external relationships, and could potentially
affect your employment.
What Are Employers Looking For?
By: Claire Houseknecht
Human Resources Coordinator,
Recruiter/Generalist
Washington County Public Schools (WCPS), Maryland