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Thinking about Teaching? 5 Tips When Applying to Ontario Colleges

Are you thinking about becoming an instructor? After enjoying many years of success in an industry, it makes sense to want to share your knowledge with others. People with extensive industry experience are in demand at Ontario colleges, and you could teach your skills to the next generation of students.

Industry leaders who have had their own practices for many years may forget how to apply for jobs. After spending so many years hiring people, becoming a job hunter again can feel like a new experience. To increase your chances of getting a teaching job, keep these five tips in mind when you’re applying to Ontario colleges.

1. Research the Schools First

Before you send in any job applications, research the college. Researching ensures you only apply to colleges that offer programs that are relevant to your expertise. It also ensures you only apply to colleges with good reputations.

Research has another major benefit. Since you’ve been in the field for a long time, you may know people who are connected to the college. During your research, you may discover that an old coworker or business partner is teaching at the school. These connections may be willing to refer you and help you get a foot in the door. If you don’t research the colleges, you could miss out on these opportunities.

2. Write a Compelling Cover Letter

As a long-time business owner, you probably haven’t written a cover letter in years. A cover letter introduces you to employers, and it accompanies your resume. A good cover letter gets the employers interested in you and makes them want to read your resume.

To increase your chances of getting an interview, take the time to write a compelling cover letter. Write a customized letter for each college teaching job you apply to. This is your chance to show the college why you’d be a good hire, so take your time and make the letter as good as possible.

3. Highlight Your Accomplishments

After many years in your field, you’ve accomplished a lot. To get hired at Ontario colleges, you need to clearly communicate those accomplishments. While you know everything you’ve accomplished, colleges will only know if you make it clear.

On your resume, list your accomplishments, not just your job duties. Accomplishments show you were successful in the field. For example, you can list the industry awards you’ve received.

4. Emphasize Your Experience

When you’re trying to find work at Toronto colleges, a long employment history in the field you want to teach is an advantage. Spending 10, 20, or even 30 years in the same field shows you’re dedicated and committed. These are good qualities in a teacher.

On your resume and cover letter, draw attention to the number of years of experience you have. This will help you stand out against other applicants who don’t have as much experience.

5. Prepare for Interviews

Your experience, cover letter, and resume will get you an interview. To get the job and become an instructor, you need to do well in the interview. If your interviewing skills are a bit rusty, you may need to practise beforehand. Role playing with a friend can help you become more comfortable. You may also want to film yourself while you’re interviewing so you can identify any mistakes.

Try to prepare for common interview questions. You may be asked why you want to become an instructor or what qualities you have that would make you a good instructor. You may be asked to talk about your strengths and weaknesses. You may be asked about your past experiences with teaching others. Behavioural questions, like how you’d handle a misbehaving student, may also be asked, so think about how you’d act in the classroom.

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