How do I distinguish myself in order to get that leadership job? Share what works and what doesn't work.
ASCD Edge
As I work with aspiring administrators, I often am asked about potential interview questions that might be asked during the hiring process. I offer a list of typical—and not so typical—interview questions that might be asked by panels who are considering school leader candidates. Of course, a hiring decision often boils down to the right fit, so questions can vary wildly depending on the needs of a particular school or the district. While this is not by any means a complete list, it does encompass a few examples of what kind of questions might be asked. As they say, there is no “right answer,” so I have tried to include a bit of rationale of what the panel might be thinking as well as a possible approach one might take. “Fit” is also an important consideration for the candidate; remember, you are interviewing them as well (though it may not feel like it!) and need to be sure that you are prepared for—and aware of—the specific leadership role that is involved.
1.) Describe effective instruction.
2.) How will you support a safe and effective school learning environment?
3.) How would you resolve a conflict between two upset adults in your school?
4.) How will you ensure that staff members continue to grow as professionals?
5.) How would you work with the School Improvement Team (or equivalent) to realize change?
6.) What is a recent professional development-related book you have read recently and what did you gain from reading it?
7.) Can you describe a mistake you have made before and how you addressed it?
8.) If your life was a movie, who would play the lead role?
9.) Do you have any questions for us?
Remember, be succinct and confident. Allow the hiring panel the opportunity to ask possible follow-up questions to probe deeper regarding issues that are on their mind. Again, my thoughts and recommendations are just that—my best guess of anticipating what you might experience. You know yourself better than anyone, and hopefully, you have a sense of the organization and the specific leadership position that you seek. The important thing is that you present the real you: a competent, prepared, and caring leader who is ready to lead a team of people toward success.
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William Sterrett is a former principal and serves on the educational leadership faculty at the University of North Carolina Wilmington. His ASCD book, Insights into Action: Successful School Leaders Share What Works and related book study guide are available at http://www.ascd.org/Publications/Books/Overview/Insights-into-Actio... He can be reached at sterrettw@uncw.edu and followed on Twitter @billsterrett
Tagrid Sihly
Thank you for posting this Mr. Keany. These are great questions to consider when preparing for the interview.
Dec 21, 2012