Hire former educators. You won't regret it. Keep reading. I suppose it is convenient that, as a former educator, I am advising employers to hire folks like me…but I come prepared (a teacher thing). Even in adverse circumstances, through economic tumult, and amidst the ever evolving world we live in, teachers DO -- they tinker, they perform, they assess, and they foster excellence in those around them. These are transferrable skills to any role that requires resolve, and skills I have seen yield success at all levels, across departments, and among organizations. ➡ They Do It All. Educators are therapists, social workers, mentors, active listeners, program managers, facilitators, conflict resolvers…people leaders. You'll find former educators as C-suite executives across the globe, maître d's at Michelin starred restaurants, and even as Goofy on Disney cruises (hi, Glen). Adaptable, strategic, creators -- teachers can scratch any (figurative) itch your organization has. ➡ They Do It With Nothing. Educators make magic happen…literally. They build systems with those just learning what systems are. They promote character and influence change in their communities with just their voices. They make ends meet -- teachers find creative ways to fulfill any requirement at any time under any circumstance. They do, and they continue to do to ensure success. ➡ They Are Resilient. Remember that time when the world shut down and the model for education shifted overnight? Teachers met the mission and evolved standards, encouraged inclusivity, and stabilized the lives of hundreds of millions of people. Overstatement? Not even close. Another way that teachers will "wow" you in any role. Bottom Line: don't sleep on former educators because their provenance on paper doesn't match what your ATS is searching for. You will be surprised what we bring to the table when things get real.
The stereotype of teachers "being labelled" lazy or less knowledgeable.. Unable.. Not good enough is sad... Teachers are powerhouses. This post just triggered me, our sector has been misrepresented. Im grateful to see someone put teachers back on the map. We will redeem our sector, little by little.
Yes Will Dowdy, MAT, PMP Great reminder! These skills are SO important in small companies! Doing something great with nothing, and being resilient - changing course, adapting, engaging an audience that doesn't always want to be engaged... Stepping out the box adds diverse backgrounds and perspectives, IS the way to go.
You need to translate your educational skills into the language of the field you desire to go into. Each field has its own language. You have to let employers know that you understand it from their language. That's what the ATS is reading- their language.
Can't stress this enough! Growing up with a mother as an educator has opened my eyes to how much goes into the world of education.
Absolutely. Couldn’t agree more with the facts you laid out in this post. Educators are smart, pragmatic, and possess so much emotional intelligence.
Thank you. It's refreshing to feel so recognized.
Love this post.
Beautiful, Will! Thank you for the countless ways you helped me during my time at Animoto 🙏💕
This is a great post! Thank you for sharing!
MBA | Passionate Educator | B.Ed Senior FET | Marketing & Management |
11moAbsolutely! Educators are the movers, shakers, and builders of society, guiding and shaping the future through their dedication, passion, and tireless efforts. Everything revolves around learning, training, and being equipped, and who better to assist your organization with this than a teacher? Their expertise in imparting knowledge, fostering critical thinking, and nurturing skills makes them invaluable assets in driving growth and development within any organization.