Professional networking is vital to growth as a teacher and coach. Seeing what others are doing in their programs, debating and discussing best practices, and collaborating with each other are just some of the things we have to do in order to stay on top of the current trends. Having a network to fall back on, both locally and nationally, can be a huge benefit to that.
Many of the college football coaches who are hired across the country get those jobs because of where they have been and who they know. So instead of going out and signing up for all these resume-type websites and hoping to get yourself noticed, I would first go to the teachers, administrators and coaches that I know and have worked with during my career. Whether I am looking for assistance or ideas, or looking for a new job, I feel this is a good place to begin.
Next, one has to get out and get noticed. It's tough to build a network if you never leave your school or community. Attend coaching & teaching conferences. And don't sit in the back! I know I am not the most outgoing person, so I have to force myself to sit up front, introduce myself to people, and mingle during down time. This is also a great opportunity to be a presenter. Then people will want to come talk with YOU and you can add them to your professional network!
Then you want to socialize - online. Facebook and Twitter are known as social sites, but they are also a great place to interact with teachers and coaches from around the world! Many relationships have developed online, both personal and professional. There are many opportunities to be a part of webinars or web chats in your content area. While I'm not really a fan of sites such as LinkedIn, it may also be a good place to interact and grow your network.
I also think it is very important to keep yourself organized. Know what paperwork you have submitted (if applying for jobs) and keep track of any workshops, trainings, or certifications you get. Update your resume and other information regularly, so if an opportunity does arise, you are ready for it. I know we've had two P.E. openings in the past four years and have had over 100 applicants for each position! Being up-to-date and ready can make a big difference.
Finally, I know this may sound harsh, but I think it's important to take care of yourself. This may not directly affect your professional networking, but I think it plays an indirect role. As a physical education teacher and football coach, I believe I should look the part. I need to be the living, breathing example. How could I expect a potential employer (or student for that matter) to take me seriously if I am an overweight slob.
There are many different thoughts out there when it comes to developing your professional network. These are just a few of mine. In the end, I believe the human interaction piece is still the best route to go, while using technology as a way to enhance what you are doing.
So then... get out there and mingle!
Make it a Great Day!
DG
Many of the college football coaches who are hired across the country get those jobs because of where they have been and who they know. So instead of going out and signing up for all these resume-type websites and hoping to get yourself noticed, I would first go to the teachers, administrators and coaches that I know and have worked with during my career. Whether I am looking for assistance or ideas, or looking for a new job, I feel this is a good place to begin.
Next, one has to get out and get noticed. It's tough to build a network if you never leave your school or community. Attend coaching & teaching conferences. And don't sit in the back! I know I am not the most outgoing person, so I have to force myself to sit up front, introduce myself to people, and mingle during down time. This is also a great opportunity to be a presenter. Then people will want to come talk with YOU and you can add them to your professional network!
Then you want to socialize - online. Facebook and Twitter are known as social sites, but they are also a great place to interact with teachers and coaches from around the world! Many relationships have developed online, both personal and professional. There are many opportunities to be a part of webinars or web chats in your content area. While I'm not really a fan of sites such as LinkedIn, it may also be a good place to interact and grow your network.
I also think it is very important to keep yourself organized. Know what paperwork you have submitted (if applying for jobs) and keep track of any workshops, trainings, or certifications you get. Update your resume and other information regularly, so if an opportunity does arise, you are ready for it. I know we've had two P.E. openings in the past four years and have had over 100 applicants for each position! Being up-to-date and ready can make a big difference.
Finally, I know this may sound harsh, but I think it's important to take care of yourself. This may not directly affect your professional networking, but I think it plays an indirect role. As a physical education teacher and football coach, I believe I should look the part. I need to be the living, breathing example. How could I expect a potential employer (or student for that matter) to take me seriously if I am an overweight slob.
There are many different thoughts out there when it comes to developing your professional network. These are just a few of mine. In the end, I believe the human interaction piece is still the best route to go, while using technology as a way to enhance what you are doing.
So then... get out there and mingle!
Make it a Great Day!
DG