The AER Student Council Presents

Preparing for Your Job SearchLisa McConachieSenior DirectorColumbia Regional Program Portland Public Schools

Who is the Audience• I would like to know the following:• Who you are,• Where you are located?• Where are you in your career?• What do you hope to learn from this webinar?

Overview of Job Search• Preparation• Know what type of position you are looking for (itinerant,

residential, etc.)• Prepare to complete applications• Prepare to sell yourself

• Conducting the job search• What are your goals and expectations?• Know what you want. • Learn about the organization you are applying for.

Questions to Start• What type of work environment do you prefer?• Itinerant• Residential school• Regional program• District TVI• What are the service models in my State?• Am I willing to move?

• Questions you might ask:• How many TVIs are in the program?• What is the average caseload?• What is the geographic area to cover?• What are the age ranges of services?

Prepare to complete applications

• Most applications are electronic – write down passwords so you can update and revise as needed.

• Update and review your resume – tailor to each employer. Bring copies to your interview.

• Work on your interview skills – employers know everyone is nervous, bring notes to reference, water to drink.

• Have current references and ensure that they are available after your interview.

• Understand that the field of vision is very small, when you are applying to one employer it is likely they will pass your name to others if they do not have a position or you are not selected.

• Make sure your licensure is up to date and correct for the position you applying. (each state is different!)

Prepare to sell yourself• Make sure you have an understanding of general special

education as well as specific information to blind/vision impaired students.

• Be able to speak fluently about all essential assessments (FVA, LMA, ECC).

• Bring a sample FVA/LMA to your interview.

Desirable Skills & Qualities• Communication Skills• Strong work ethic• Independent and organized• Interpersonal skills• Problem solving skills• Collaboration• Flexibility and adaptability• Technology skills• Leadership skills

Finding Your Match• Interviewing is also a time to learn about the employer.• You will be interviewed by the administrator or supervisor –

can you envision working for that person?• What is the “feel” of the organization?• Visit their website• Don’t be afraid to turn down an offer if it is not the right fit.

How to Network• Contact your local University• Join local AER• Search websites of employers• Call or email and inquire about possible openings• Send your resume to potential employers• Be sure to respond to emails from potential employers, send

thank you notes for interviews.• Keep checking back. • Keep track of who you have talked to• Always be courteous and professional.

Final thoughts• Be punctual and professional at all times.• Understand that employers are looking for teachers who are

qualified but also who are willing to learn new skills.• Always follow up an interview with a thank you note even if

you are not offered the position.• Communicate your acceptance or decline of a position

promptly.

Questions

AER Resources AER Student Listserv – Members Onlyhttp://lists.aerbvi.org/mailman/listinfo/aer-students_lists.aerbvi.org

AER Student Facebook Group – Publichttps://www.facebook.com/groups/AERStudentCouncil

Vision Profession Flyerswww.aerbvi.org/?page_id=263

AER Job Exchangehttp://jobexchange.aerbvi.org

General AER Informationwww.aerbvi.org