Stand out in the school library job market!

Last week I was fortunate enough to participate in a fall forum hosted by the School of Library and Information Studies  (woot!) at Texas Woman's University.

The timely topic for the panel geared to MLS students interested in school, academic, public, and special libraries was securing a job in a tight economy.

In the six years I've been library coordinator for Frisco (TX) ISD, we've added 30 new schools (nope, no typo--30 new schools).  Factor in the normal vacancies for retirement, relocation, and resignations, and I've screened a bunch of prospective school librarians.

I'd like to share the info (along with a few comments) that I prepared for the fall forum.

Stand out in the school library job market!

How you lay the groundwork counts...

• Know when to start the process. For us February is perfect.  I may lose your resume in January, and it's often too late in March.
• Follow hiring procedures.  Don't know?  Ask.
• Initiate contact with a brief email.
• Attach your resume and cover letter.  No mistakes, please!  
• Resist frequent follow-up.  I won't forget you if I want to recommend you.

What you do counts...

• Dress up for your interview.  It doesn't have to be new or fancy, but look professional and as if you made an effort.
• Be on time.
• Shake hands firmly.
• Smile and call the interviewer by name.
• Bring your resume.
• Share your portfolio if it's strong.  Please, no graded MLS assignments.  

What you say counts...

• Use the interviewer's formal title unless directed otherwise.  Not Jane, but Ms. Smith.  Not Ms. Smith if it's Dr. Smith.  
• Refrain from over sharing personal information.  I have no clue why people say these things in interviews, but I have actually heard about a messy divorce and too many bad principals to count.
• Ask the philosophy of the library program.
• Be able to articulate how you can carry out this vision.
• Remain calm and professional.  Even if you're desperate, do not beg or cry (I've seen both),
• Save a couple of questions for the end. 

What you know counts...

• Research the district and campus.  Why do you want to be part of it?
• Anticipate questions in advance.  Practice!
• Provide specific implementation ideas.  General ideas don't show your depth of knowledge.
• Keep examples pertinent to the situation.  If you're applying for elementary, don't focus on your previous middle school job.
• Share how you will collaborate for meaningful instruction.  
• Show how you can foster 21st century readers and learners.  

My own interview for my first job as a librarian was a disaster, and I still got the job (quite possibly there were no other candidates?!)  So don't despair if things aren't absolutely perfect.  

Smile, share your passion for kids and libraries, and good things will happen if you're a good match for the job.

If you're a school librarian, what job-hunting tips worked well for you?  Please share your advice here!