Navigating Job Searches with AI
A Librarian's Guide to Hopeful Success
I first want to thank all of my followers who took the time to sign the petition to fight the cuts in special teachers, including librarians, in Union, NJ, where I teach. I was told last week that my position was not being renewed because they were planning on going ahead with these cuts. To say I am devastated is an understatement, not only because I loved working in Union and loved my students, but also because these cuts mean a lot less instructional time in art, music, Spanish, computers, and libraries for elementary students in Union. The reasoning behind these cuts is that they need to add more instructional time to core subjects.
While the research is very clear that art, music, world languages, technology, and libraries increase student test scores, such as the study by Gale Bogel (2006) which found that school libraries play an active, transformational role in student learning and achievement, the administration in the district has chosen to move in another direction.
This week's newsletter is going to focus on how to use AI to help when you are faced with a job search. It is inspired by my own search and this really good article by Dan Fitzpatrick in Forbes entitled "7 ChatGPT Prompts To Land You That Leadership Role In Education."
Ways ChatGPT or Any Generative AI Program Can Help with a Job Search:
Here are some ways to use ChatGPT:
1. Crafting and Optimizing Application Materials
Resume Writing: Provide ChatGPT with your work experience, skills, and education, and ask it to help draft or improve your resume tailored for a school librarian position. Since I already have a resume, I used it to help update it for me.
Cover Letter Drafting: Ask ChatGPT to help you write a personalized cover letter that highlights your qualifications and passion for the role. I attach a copy of my resume and prompt it to help me write a cover letter using information from my resume.
Email Templates: Use ChatGPT to draft professional emails for job applications, follow-ups, and thank-you notes after interviews. I highly recommend using it in this way. It has been especially helpful for thank-you notes.
Application Questions: Almost every Applitrack application has at least one or two questions that you are asked to answer. Thanks to ChatGPT, the process is much easier. I prompt ChatGPT to answer the questions using information from my resume. It has made the answers much more personalized and cut down on the amount of time it takes to apply.
2. Job Search Strategies
Job Boards and Websites: Request recommendations for the best job boards and websites where school librarian positions are frequently posted.
Keyword Suggestions: Ask ChatGPT for suggestions on effective keywords and phrases to use in your resume and cover letter to pass Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS). I have not done this yet, but I am planning on trying it.
3. Interview Preparation
Common Interview Questions: Have ChatGPT generate a list of common interview questions for school librarian positions along with suggested answers.
Mock Interviews: Simulate an interview with ChatGPT by having it ask you questions and provide feedback on your responses.
4. Networking Tips
Outreach Messages: Get help drafting messages to connect with other professionals in the field, such as current school librarians, school administrators, and education consultants.
LinkedIn Profile Optimization: Ask ChatGPT for tips on how to enhance your LinkedIn profile to attract potential employers in the education sector.
5. Research and Insights
School Research: Use ChatGPT to gather information about schools or districts where you are applying, including their library programs, mission, and values.
Industry Trends: Request insights on the latest trends and developments in the field of school librarianship to stay informed and impress potential employers during interviews.
6. Skills Enhancement
Professional Development: Ask ChatGPT for recommendations on relevant courses, certifications, and professional development opportunities that can enhance your qualifications.
Resource Recommendations: Get suggestions for books, articles, and other resources that can help you stay current with best practices in school librarianship.
Practical Example:
Given your background and experience, you might:
Resume Optimization: "ChatGPT, can you help me rewrite my resume to emphasize my experience in managing library resources, integrating technology into the library, and promoting literacy programs?"
Cover Letter Drafting: "ChatGPT, can you draft a cover letter for me? I’m applying for a school librarian position at XYZ School, and I want to highlight my experience in curriculum support and educational equity."
Interview Preparation: "ChatGPT, what are some common questions asked in school librarian interviews, and how should I answer them?"
Networking Message: "ChatGPT, can you help me write a message to a school librarian at a school I'm interested in? I’d like to learn more about their library program and any advice they might have for someone applying for a similar role."
Conclusion
In a rapidly changing job market, leveraging AI tools like ChatGPT can provide a significant advantage in the job search process. From crafting application materials to preparing for interviews and networking, AI can offer personalized and efficient support.
Thank you again for your support, and I hope these insights will be as helpful to you as they have been to me. I am currently looking for school librarian positions in northern NJ, and any help or guidance would be greatly appreciated.