Not Achieving Your Goal ≠ Failure
This week I interviewed for a Literacy Coach position at my school.
After twelve years in education, a variety of experiences leading professional development, participating in diverse leadership opportunities, and recently completing my Ed. Specialist in Educational Leadership, I was sure I was ready for the challenge.
Like anyone interviewing for a job she really, REALLY wants, I was nervous. I decided not to tell anyone for fear of getting my hopes up. Of course, that lasted for about two hours before I broke down and told my family and some friends to ask for their advice. My sister, a former principal, offered some great professional guidance and reminded me to make sure I covered my arms for the interview. I groaned at the thought of wearing a blazer in the dreadful Atlanta heat.
The day of my interview finally came. It was time. I thought I knew what to expect, but I still could not slow the millions of thoughts swirling around my head or slow my breathing to a normal pace. During the interview, I watched a video of a literacy lesson, modeled the conference I would have had with that teacher, and answered interview questions about my experience and qualifications. While my nerves made it feel like I was talking a mile a minute, walking out, I felt confident that I had represented myself well.
Luckily, I did not have to wait long for feedback. Today my principal asked to meet with me and started by telling me they decided to go with someone else. I thought I would be a wreck. I was sure I would be devastated by the news that I did not get the job. Before I had the chance, my principal began giving feedback about my interview. His focus on the positives and his support for my ability to continue moving toward a leadership position changed the way I viewed this loss. He has now given me the opportunity and challenge of coaching teachers on my department team and focusing on literacy strategies with my current students to increase their achievement. Not getting this job might just make me a better candidate in the future.
As my principal told me, I will definitely get a coaching position in the future. “It’s not if, but when.”
Staci Robbins
