No, that image to the left is not an iPad surrounded by SmartCovers. That is the Microsoft Surface. Not to be confused with the giant table-sized computer the company released a while ago, the Surface is Microsoft’s entry into the tablet market.
Attempting to take a page out of Apple’s playbook on several levels, Microsoft revealed the Surface during a mystery press event in California. What those in attendance saw was an iPad knock-off that is heavier, boasts shorter batter life and an inferior chip. To be fair, the Surface does have an impressive cover that contains a fully functioning keyboard, but that is an accessory that must be purchased.
Microsoft has two versions of the Surface in the works, each for a very different audience. There’s a “consumer version” that will run Windows RT and a “business version” that will run Windows 8.
Microsoft isn’t saying exactly when the Surface will be available for purchase, or how much it will cost, but experts are predicting the “consumer version” to fall in the $500 price range with the “business version” to come in at over $1,000. The pricier version does have better overall tech specs than its cheaper brother, but that improved performance comes at the cost of weight and, of course, cost.
Improving your interviewing skills is important but here are some tips for you to prepare for that all important interview.
The first thing I would strongly suggest is to be on time to the interview. Whether it is a face to face or a zoom meeting, be on time. Arriving late is never a good first impression. Last year I interviewed close to 300 candidates and I was sadly disappointed on how many were late. Know the time, day, and location of the interview. I would even suggest driving...
Once you are initially hired as a teacher or administrator, you may wish to set your sights on a different position in the educational field. This is normal and certainly not unusual. However, your career goals may not always align with the decision makers due to a number of factors.
If you don’t get the position what can you do? Promotions are out of your hands. You hope you have the necessary academic qualifications and experience but you don’t always know. A...
Most schools and school districts do not use applications anymore for employment due to the threat of lawsuits a from legal challenges on the application forms. This is especially true in the United States where I spent 38 years in school and university administration.
So now candidates use their own CVs to apply for an educational opportunity. The CV is the first step in the hiring process. As I have said and written many times the CV is short and to the point, just a page or two....
I was a school and college administrator since 1977 and have interviewed hundreds of candidates. When a teacher shows up for an interview we expect to see several things:
Be on time, dress appropriately, be prepared-know the position you are applying for as well as the school, be enthusiastic, show a good personality, have the relevant skills, make sure you have the proper qualifications and certifications, be confident, and sell yourself-why are you the best person for the job.
If you are interested in changing jobs, you have to update your CV and I recommend that you create a cover letter that you would submit with your CV. The CV is normally a one to two page introduction of you that should include your basic information: career goals (what job you are applying for), brief bio, your educational experiences , your education and certifications, any special skills and activities, as well as awards and honors.
The cover letter should introduce you to the...
All of us have experienced the disappointment of rejection from our dream job. Even though we thought we were perfect for the position. Our CV was on point as was our cover letter and we nailed the interview. What went wrong? Do not take the rejection personally. Often the circumstances surrounding you not getting the job has nothing to do with you.
I have been in school leadership for 45 years and involved in the interview process from the school house to higher education....
Although the CV, cover letter, and the interview are very helpful in the hiring process, an overlooked but very important aspect of the process is the reference. Often you will list your references and their contact information on your CV. This is not necessary. Most candidates will put “references available upon request”. Or just leave blank as we know to contact references when we are ready. We want to get an unbiased opinion of your work.
Even when you list your references or...
I have reviewed many very well written CVs and several suggestions that I have for educational job seekers is:
In your career objective include the position you are seeking. Just because you have been a homeroom teacher does not necessarily mean that you are looking for that position. Be specific. Also do you want to work in the national, British, American, etc. section. Again, be specific. I am a consultant at a school where we have three different departments. We don’t know...
Just like teaching gratitude, mindfulness is an intervention with a wide range of cognitive, psychological, and physical benefits. On a personal level, you will want to practice mindful strategies on your own to truly incorporate them into your classroom practice. Mindfulness is defined as:
Did You Know?
1. In 2015, archaeologists found what is said to be the oldest pretzel. Found in Regensburg, Germany, the remains of two pretzels about 250 years old were found, beneath the floor in what had been a bakery.
2. In 2015, a pretzel weighing 1728 lb(...