Tell me about your greatest work-related accomplishment.

"The greatest accomplishment in my career was graduating University as an honors student while still working full time in a related field. I was top of my class and working full time. This showed me that I could dedicate myself to my career and reach the goals that I set for myself. It felt great to accomplish so much and be recognized for my dedication."

Talking about your most significant accomplishment will give the interviewer a strong idea of where you place your values. It will also show the interviewer more about your personality, how you like to be motivated, and how to coach you in the future. It is okay to brag a little bit when answering this question. Show that you are proud of yourself and your career accomplishments!

"I have many accomplishments that I am very proud of. Overall, I would say that my greatest work accomplishment is the positive reputation that I have as an educator. Reputation is everything, and I am proud of mine."

"My greatest work-related accomplishment was starting as an intern in television production and working my way up to a television producer. It took many years of hard work in seven different positions. However, I worked hard, learned what I needed to know, practiced skills until they were second nature to me, and reached my goals every time. The company I worked for created a position for me when my supervisor, and I noticed a niche I could fill. When I teach my students how to set their goals, I briefly tell my story to encourage and motivate them to reach theirs."

When have you had to adapt to change?

"I feel that educators adapt to change daily! The vibe in the classroom is different every day. Students' moods and efforts vary as well. I am well accustomed to working in a changing environment. On one specific occasion, the power went out at the school I worked at previously, and I had to adapt my plans so that learning could still occur without the help of the computer and projector. Instead, we took our math lesson outside and used chalk on the blacktop to make it interactive and fun."

Being able to adapt to change in the workplace is a crucial skill to possess. Talk to the interviewer about a time when you have had to adjust to changes on the job. Share how you handled the change and how you turned it into a learning opportunity and positive experience.

"After being a dedicated mathematics teacher for the past ten years, I was asked to take on a new focus this coming year. I am currently prepping myself to teach chemistry as well. It's been a challenge, but I am excited about the change."

"In both of my careers, I needed to adapt to change every day. When I was a television producer, our scripts, budgets, actors, and circumstances beyond our control changed often. In the classroom, my students' works were affected by how they felt that day which affected their comprehension and efforts. Therefore, I was used to making changes at the last minute. One example of a changing situation occurred when the computer system in the school went down during a social studies exam. My students had studied hard for the exam and were frustrated that they could not finish their tests and receive their grades. I took out six blank monopoly boards and had my students make cards with all of the answers. Then they played a game in groups selecting a card with the answer and had to come up with the question. The group's secretary recorded their group members' answers as I watched them play the game. I could tell who knew the material and graded my students accordingly. They said that they enjoyed playing the game so much that they forgot they were taking a test."

How do you go about differentiating lessons?

"I always do my best to really get to know students quickly. Being familiar with their interests, learning styles, reading level, preferred subjects, etc. only helps me to be a better teacher for them. I cater my instruction to their interests to keep content relevant and their learning style so they can best absorb new material. My goal is always to challenge students without allowing them to become frustrated."

Differentiation is crucial because not all students learn new information the same way. Students have differing preferred learning styles, ability levels, amounts of prior knowledge, and experience. Teachers must be willing to adjust their content to meet the needs of all students, while still maintaining high expectations and rigor in their lessons. Maybe you utilize visual aids or graphic organizers, break a concept down into steps, show examples and non-examples, provide sentence starters, etc. Share how you adjust content to meet unique needs.

"Each student has a preferred learning style, and successful differentiation includes delivering the material to each style. I utilize a variety of instructional strategies, design lessons based on my students' different learning styles, group my students by their ability to complete their assignments and shared interests, use formative assessments, and reteach lessons in a different way when necessary."

How do you handle stress on the job?

"I handle stress very well, and when you call my references, they will attest to this fact. When I am under pressure, I focus on the task at hand and do not get distracted. Staying on deadline is very helpful, and I will delegate when necessary to alleviate some stress. I also make sure to get enough sleep each night, exercise regularly, and keep myself organized to avoid unwanted stress."

Companies want to hire people who have developed ways to cope with stress, both in and out of the workplace. It is best to mention some ways you proactively minimize stress levels (exercising, keeping your calendar current, tracking deadlines, scheduling meetings and appointments, etc.) and some ways you cope with stress when it inevitably comes your way. Talk to the interviewer about your ability to manage pressure in the workplace.

"Stress is part of any demanding job, and I embrace it to the fullest. I take good care of myself and prioritize my workload to maintain a healthy balance in my stress levels."

"I handle stress well by prioritizing my responsibilities, so I have a clear idea of the tasks that need to be completed. I also exercise regularly, keep an open line of communication with my colleagues and supervisors, and maintain a workable calendar with clearly marked deadlines."

At Varsity Tutors we seek to hire those who are passionate about education. How would you describe your teaching/mentorship style?

"Education has been my pure passion ever since I started my first teaching job in 2004. There are endless ways to educate another person, so I would describe my teaching style as fluid. I will adapt to the needs of my student as much as possible. Being an active listener of words and body language is a vital part of my teaching style. My students consistently send me accolades for my work, and I often hear from them even after they have completed my class."

If you have ever heard of an 'Elevator Pitch,' this type of interview question is a great reason to have one! Consider why you love what you do and what makes you the most engaged potential hire for Varsity Tutors. Briefly discuss your teaching and mentorship style and close by giving an example of a time when you were recognized for your teaching or leadership methods.

"Here are some keys to effective mentorship that you can draw on for your response: - Committed - Collaborative - Encouraging - Willing to pass on knowledge - Approachable - Patient - Honest - Diplomatic - Ability to give constructive feedback - Continued learner - Curious - Objective - Genuine"

"I am passionate about each of my students experiencing their "Ah-ha" moments. In order to be an effective teacher, I get to know my students' strengths and weaknesses and then combine my teaching styles to bring out what they are good at doing and to practice skills that I demonstrate to them. I combine my teaching styles to accommodate my students' needs. I use hands-on activities as well as brief traditional lectures to provide facts and explain why we are learning what we are learning. This method makes student learning relevant and encourages them to learn. During our first lessons, I make it clear to my students that I am a lifelong learner and that I learn from them every day. I also persuade and support my students to practice their problem-solving and communication skills."

List the top 3 skills that you have acquired in your last role.

"In the past few years, I was able to upgrade my education while still working full time. The most important skills that I gained recently were multitasking, improving my follow-through, and speaking in front of a group. I had lots of practice with public speaking in front of several age groups, and I've become more efficient and reliable in working with a team."

You have likely gained many valuable skills in your career. Share with the interviewer which skills you value the most. Be sure to include skills that will benefit this potential new employer.

"My last role was very challenging and was a big step in my career. The top 3 skills that I acquired would be my student relationship skills, clear communication skills, and ability to prioritize."

"In the past few years, I have acted as the sole caregiver to my elderly mother. I have gained many valuable skills from taking on this last role. These skills include my ability to multi-task, communicate clearly, problem-solve, and prioritize my mother's medical appointments, lab tests, scans, and medical procedures, as well as to utilize my listening and researching skills to understand medical jargon."

Do you always double check or proofread your work?

"Spelling and grammatical errors are a pet peeve of mine. I will triple-check my work if there is time! I feel that it is crucial to submit error-free work. I always want to be known as someone who is consistent and produces high-quality work."

Double-checking and proofreading are very important parts of a job well done. Assure the interviewer that you are diligent when it comes to submitting good, clean work. This is crucial so that you are perceived as a competent individual and that you are teaching skills to students that should be error-free.

"I am so accustomed to working under pressure and tight deadlines that I do forget to double-check my work at times. This is a habit that I have consciously been working on to improve."

"Double-checking and proofreading are crucial parts of a job well done. I always triple-check and proofread my work to ensure that it is error-free. Spelling and grammatical errors are a pet peeve of mine."

If you could start your career over again, what direction would you take?

"I certainly do not regret the direction I have taken my career; however, if I had to completely start over in a new direction, I would likely pursue a degree in Mechanical Engineering and become an engineer. Both of my parents were engineers, and they seemed to have a very fulfilling career. I enjoy analytics and research, which I tend to also do a lot of in my role as an educator."

A hiring manager will be able to tell a lot about your personality by learning about your other career interests. Describe different career paths that interest you and would be a good fit for your unique skill set and interests. Share why the role would be fitting the strengths it would highlight of yours. This is an excellent opportunity to share more about your talents and interests that might not otherwise be mentioned.

"I am satisfied with the direction my career has taken. If I could change anything, I would perhaps have furthered my education to include a Masters' degree in reading."

"I am pleased with the direction I have taken in my career. If I could make a change, I would combine my first career as a television producer with my second career in teaching in order to teach television production to elementary or middle school students. In doing so, I believe that I could create a fun and productive environment utilizing project-based learning where I could explain, demonstrate, and facilitate my students' learning in a variety of subjects including reading, writing, spelling, math, computers, and social studies, as well as in speaking and listening."

What questions do you have for me?

"Thank you for asking. I'm curious when you would like this position to be filled. Also, what is the culture like among employees? Are there any incentives or employee engagement items that I can learn more about?"

It's always a great idea to have questions ready for the interviewer. Review the company website and other online resources to ensure the questions you are asking are not mundane, or redundant. The last thing an interviewer wants to hear is a list of questions you could have found the answers to from a simple Google search.

"Thank you for asking - I do have a few questions. What is top of mind when it comes to filling this role? In addition, what types of career growth opportunities would follow this position? And lastly, do you have internal candidates who are also interviewing for this position?"

"Thank you for asking. In your opinion, what will make me a successful tutor for Varsity Tutors? Do you offer opportunities for career growth?"

Share about a time you experienced a breakdown in communication and how you responded to it.

"Two years ago, my team and I sent out a mailer to our families with wrong information printed on it. The dates of our biannual parent conferences were incorrect. I only realized this when a parent approached me to sign up for a conference time. As soon as I was made aware, I sent out an email blast to all families accepting responsibility, offering my apologies, and communicating the correct date. From that experience, I learned the importance of having an extra set of eyes on all communication that goes out to our students and families. Strong, consistent communication is important to establish rapport and trust."

Communication with students, parents, and fellow coworkers is crucial in this line of work. However, breakdowns in communication happen, even when all parties have the best of intentions. Share about a time when either you or someone else was responsible for a minor communication breakdown and how you responded to it purposefully and professionally. Share how you turned a negative situation into a positive one with your problem-solving skills and can-do attitude and what you learned from the whole experience.

"When I started teaching in a new school, the secretary gave me the phone extension for my classroom and my code, which I changed immediately. I did not think it was strange that I had not received any phone calls during the first two days of school. I sent my new families an e-mail with my new extension and told them to contact me with any questions or concerns. On the third day, my principal came into my classroom and asked me why I had not responded to two parents' phone calls asking to meet with me. I told her that no one had called me. I gave her my phone and dialed the number for voicemail messages so she could hear that I did not have any messages. The principal sent me an e-mail the following day stating that her secretary had given me the wrong extension to give to the parents. I typed a note during my prep time apologizing to the parents for the mis-communication and gave them the correct extension number. After school that day, I called the two parents, apologized again, and left them voicemail messages telling them how to contact me and stating that I would be happy to meet with them at their convenience. I learned a lesson that I will never forget. Whenever I changed classrooms or schools, I called the extension I was given to make sure that it was the correct phone number. Communication works for those who work at it."

Explain how you prefer to communicate with parents.

"I always greet parents and hold friendly conversations with them whenever I see them. In terms of a more formal report, I provide a biweekly email to parents with relevant updates and progress. Parents are invited in for conferences twice annually, and I provide a deeper dive into progress monitoring and growth at that time. I try to reply to all emails within 48 hours, and I am sure to make any urgent communication a priority."

As a tutor, communicating with parents will be expected as a regular occurrence. Parents will be curious as to hold their students are progressing and regular reports and conferences will be part of your role. Share how you prefer to communicate on a regular basis to report progress and what you might do if there was an immediate need or issue.

"I am friendly to parents when I greet them every morning. If they want to talk to me, we arrange for a time to meet to discuss their child's progress or if they have questions or concerns. I have my students copy their homework assignments in their homework journals every day. I also write notes to their parents which require their initials to indicate that they have read it. I make it clear that their parents can also write notes to me which I will initial. In addition, I create a weekly newsletter indicating the weekly homework assignments and assessments, background information on some of the topics we are studying in class, the Student of the Week, and any information regarding upcoming field trips, requests for parent assistance, or special materials needed for our classroom. Parents have expressed their gratitude for receiving such a comprehensive newsletter. I also send home grade reports, report cards, and behavior cards for parents to sign and return to me. I answer parents' telephone calls within a 48-hour time period."

How do you believe you will compliment our department, if you were hired?

"If I were hired, I feel that I would complement your faculty in a few significant ways. First - I am a fast learner, and I already bring six years' experience in the education industry. The time to train me will be reduced. Also, I will bring a solid curriculum with me, which will make an impact almost immediately."

If you were awarded the position, explain how the company or organization would benefit. This is an excellent opportunity to continue sharing or reiterating your strengths and experience to emphasize your interest. Assure the interviewer that you are the right fit for this position.

"If I were hired, I will compliment your department by adding value to the pressing initiatives you have prioritized. I am excited to share my knowledge when it comes to cross-departmental efforts."

"I have always been willing to do whatever is necessary to get the job done, but two situations stand out in my mind. When I was a teacher on track break, my principal often called me at home to ask if I was available to assist the school. I went to different classrooms to pull out students to administer timed reading tests. I was informally known as the "Reading Test Teacher.""

Private and franchised adult learning institutions have greatly increased in popularity over the years. Do you see value in these institutions? Why or why not?

"I can understand the draw when it comes to franchised adult learning institutions. Not everyone can attend University right out of high school, and many have the option to return to school later on in life. In my opinion, continued education is important. As long as the courses being offered are legitimate ones, who am I to stand in the way?"

The topic of franchised adult learning institutions can be a controversial one! When asked to discuss a controversial topic in an interview, it is best to avoid offending statements or pushing any buttons. Give a rather cooled opinion on both sides and leave it at that.

"I primarily support traditional learning that comes from a University or long-standing College. I feel that the coursework is more likely to be recognized. I would not like to see someone complete a diploma at a franchised institution to find out later that their courses are not recognized. If they can guarantee course credit recognition, then that is great."

"I believe that there is value in both private and franchised adult learning institutions. I graduated from a private university and value the education I received there. I also understand that some people need to continue their education later in life in order to complete a degree or gain valuable skills they need to work."

In this position you may be working with individuals who are underage and/or vulnerable. We do full background checks on all of our employees. Are you willing to comply?

"Yes, I am happy to comply with any criminal, financial, and educational-related background checks that you require. My record is clean."

This is where you must disclose to the interviewer if you do not have a clean criminal background. Discuss your willingness to comply, and be sure to disclose any pain points ahead of time. They should find any marks on your record directly from you!

"For example: "I am happy to comply with any criminal, financial, and educational related background check that you require. The majority will come back clean; however, I should disclose that I have a DUI charge from 7 years ago that may come up. I have been cleared of charges now, and my drivers' license has been reinstated."

"I am happy to comply with any criminal, financial, and educational-related background checks that you require. The majority will come back clean; however, I should disclose that I am working hard to improve my credit report."

In our industry, your day may not be a typical 8AM - 4PM. Are you willing to work overtime and participate in extra-curricular activities?

"I am available to work weekdays and most evenings, with some notice on overtime if possible."

The education industry is often in demand, even outside of typical school hours and activities. If you have restrictions in your schedule, this is a great time to address those restrictions.

"For example: "I do take an evening course every Thursday, so I would not be available for additional hours those days. Other than that, I am happy to make myself available as often as possible."

"I am available to work weekdays and most weekends. Although, I would not be available during the evenings."

How do you like to encourage ideas in others?

"I like to encourage other people to be creative in their thinking and present ideas to their classrooms, no matter how off the wall they may seem. Some of our most successful teachers are confident in their ability to bring forward their unique ideas. I encourage participation through an open door policy and strong praise for those who show initiative."

Encouragement of others is a great skill to possess. Talk to the interviewer about your ability to encourage creative ideas in your team members. This could look like offering a weekly spotlight to share the great work others are doing daily or providing space to 'shout out' people going above and beyond. Whatever it is, the best workplaces offer encouragement and gratitude to see forward momentum from employees.

"I encourage people to tap into the best parts of themselves. It helps to ask probing questions to get them to generate ideas on their own. If you paint a long-term vision for where you want to go, you will be surprised at the creative solutions your team will come up with to get you there."

"I encourage ideas in others by supporting critical thinking skills and utilizing group projects and discussions. This technique will expand my students' thinking and demonstrate that there are many ways to think about and solve a problem."

What is a weakness of yours that you are actively working to improve?

"I am working on my ability to be assertive in the workplace. I do not always advocate for my needs or ask for help when I am in need. I tend to feel like I am bothering people when I speak up. I am trying to rewrite my perspective on this by being as honest as possible in my quarterly reviews. My mentor is also helping to hold me accountable to speaking up for myself more in order to find better work and life balance."

We all have weaknesses. They are inevitable. However, showing an awareness of those weaknesses and having a plan to grow and improve upon those areas is so important. Name a weakness here that would not disqualify you for the role and share the actionable steps you are taking to learn, grow, and hold yourself accountable in this area.

"At times, I find it difficult to balance my work with my personal life. When I ignore my personal needs, I have noticed that I lose focus and feel less motivated. In order to create a more harmonious work-life balance, I spend more time with my family and friends, exercise, and stop working at a certain time each night so that I can rest and refresh myself. As a result, I work more comfortably, I am more productive and inspired, and can enhance the quality of my work and my performance."

Why do you want this job with Varsity Tutors?

"I am excited about this opportunity because your values are very much in line with mine. I deeply care about giving back to the community through educating our at-risk youth. I also appreciate your commitment to community outreach. I read the recent article in The Village Times about your involvement and partnership with the park district and local schools. I am impressed by the level of genuine investment I have seen in the community."

If you are lucky enough to land an interview, make some effort and research the opportunity. Think about how this job will help you in your career. It's crucial for you to know what you have to offer them and what they can do for you. While your passion and excitement about the job are important, it's always good to have some hard facts to back it up. For instance, saying 'I have heard great things about your institution, and I know I would be a great fit for this job' is not very specific. If you find recent news articles or press releases about their accomplishments, mention how that impressed you.

"I have had my eye on new openings in your school for some time now. Your reputation for employee development and community involvement is something that I admire. I see a long-term fit here."

"I do not know how to answer this question. I have researched this company, but there is not much information out there. Please help me to answer this question by highlighting the successes of this company and discussing them in a positive light."

How do you define success?

"I define success by my ability to reach the goals that are set out for me. On a personal level, the things I wish to achieve in my life. On a work level, the targets set out for me and the professional development that I seek. I want to be someone who is always learning and growing."

Describe what you consider success to be. Explain how you know when you've been successful. Tell the interviewer how you see success and be sure to tie your answer into the success you plan to bring to this particular position, should you be offered the role.

"I define success by what we achieve as a team. The faculty, as a whole, needs to deliver on expectations before I consider anything a success."

"When I do my absolute best to reach my goals, I feel successful. I am a curious, confident, self-aware, hard-working, and respectful person who sets goals and focuses on achieving them. My definition of success in the classroom is centered on my students. I want to see them succeed to the best of their abilities. In order to help them to achieve this goal, I need to first identify my students' strengths and weaknesses and provide them with a customized curriculum to ensure their maximum growth and development. My students will eventually be able to use these tools to meet their personal goals as well."

Tell me about a teacher, leader, or mentor who affected your life in a positive way.

"In my elementary years, I had some trouble with reading. My grade 2 teacher was a very patient and kind person who went above her duties by giving me additional resources. Because she was generous with her time and efforts, I was exceeding grade-level expectations in no time. In addition to catching up academically, I was able to gain a lot of personal confidence."

When you work in education, it is important to understand the difference that a strong leader and mentor can make in a student's life. Talk to the interviewer briefly about someone who may have helped you along the way. Consider anyone who may have been influential or had a positive impact on you.

"I believe that every teacher and leader that I have had has played their part in positively affecting my life. From a young age, I have been lucky enough to have excellent mentors who wanted to invest in my future. It's a large part of why I wanted to work in the field of education, myself."

"Nothing great was ever accomplished alone. My fifth-grade teacher always marked up my papers with a red pen. I earned B's on my papers while my friends who did not write as eloquently as I did receive A's. When I asked my teacher why she was always so tough on me, she told me that I was capable of doing more--of elevating my writing to a higher level than my friends. My fifth-grade teacher's efforts to push me beyond my boundaries have strengthened my writing skills immensely and boosted my confidence in everything I do."

What is your teaching philosophy?

"I am passionate about providing a safe and supported environment for students to feel free to be their authentic selves, takes risks, make mistakes, grow as independent learners, and ask questions. I believe that each student is inherently brilliant, just as they are. I encourage curiosity, thoughtfulness, creativity, perseverance, problem-solving, cooperation, and mutual respect in my teaching, and I believe all students are capable of learning."

Having a prepared teaching philosophy to share communicates your passion for the role and the intentional thinking about how you want to instruct students. Share what you consider excellent teaching looks like regarding teacher moves, student participation and engagement, the teaching environment, and group learning. Consider what students need to be successful and how you can provide that regularly.

"I believe classroom and behavior management is about ensuring students are focused on their learning materials. My first step for classroom management is to make my lessons engaging and motivating. I believe that this is the best way to minimize disruptions and promote learning."

At Varsity Tutors, we seek to hire the most compassionate individuals. Do you consider yourself compassionate?

"I was raised to be a compassionate person and do consider myself to possess this quality. One way that I show this is by volunteering my time as an after-school tutor for kids struggling in school and who lack the resources at home. I have been committed to this volunteer work for the past two years."

The best way to answer a question like this is to give a clear and concise example of how you consistently show your compassionate character. Maybe you help students in your free time, or you volunteer. Maybe you received recognition for your efforts from a previous employer. Brainstorm some examples that show off your great character!

"I believe compassion is a must-have trait for anyone wishing to succeed in the field of education. When I think of compassion, I think of the quote from Arthur Schopenhauer that says, 'Compassion is the basis of morality.' I truly believe in this and try to practice it every day."

"I am the most compassionate person in my family. As George Washington Carver once said, "How far you go in life depends on your being tender with the young, compassionate with the aged, sympathetic with the striving and tolerant of the weak and strong. Because someday in your life you will have been all of these." I am disciplined yet compassionate with my students. They have told me when they do not have enough food in their homes, get enough sleep at night, or have enough time to do their homework. I listen and provide them with suggestions. My students know that I will be there for them if they are having a rough time."

Tell me something about yourself that I wouldn't know from reading your resume.

"I am an avid marathon runner and have traveled to 10 countries in the last eight years to compete in various races. I am a competitive individual and enjoy keeping fit."

The interviewer would like to get to know you apart from what is written on your resume. You are certainly not obligated to discuss personal matters such as your kids or relationship status, for instance. Stick with a couple of fun facts to show the interviewer that you are a real person, too. Your answer should be unique so that you are a memorable candidate! Focus on special non-work-related skills or hobbies. For example, you might share that you enjoy beat-boxing or making origami swans. Be prepared for the interviewer to stop you and ask you to perform your skill on the spot when it's possible! (This will make you unforgettable!)

"I am bilingual in Spanish and have some proficiency in French and Italian, too. I also am a huge Harry Potter fan and could pretty much quote each book to you!"

"Before I went to graduate school, I taught Judaism and Hebrew language in a private after-school program. I created fun individual and small group activities and games to help my students to learn information, practice their skills, and demonstrate their grasp of knowledge and skills by playing games for which I evaluated them individually."

Do you prefer working with a student one-on-one or with a larger class of students?

"As an educator for the past four years, I feel that I have developed a strong ability to adapt to nearly every teaching situation. I do not lean strongly to group settings versus individual settings; however, I always enjoy seeing how students interact with each other when a challenge is at hand."

Discuss your preference with the interviewer, and be sure to highlight your overall experience, whether that be with larger classes of students or one-on-one. You can keep your answer brief and be sure to avoid talking yourself out of a job. (IE: if this is a tutoring company, avoid discussing how you do not enjoy one-on-one student interaction.)

"I tend to enjoy teaching larger groups at a time simply because of the energy a class full of students can offer. Also, the insightful questions that can come from a solid group session are pretty surprising at times. With that said, at times, it is easier to make a direct impact when you teach one-on-one. I am satisfied with either method."

"I enjoy both working individually and with larger groups. In a one-on-one setting, I listen and actively respond to my students. I give my students a safe space to openly share. When I teach larger groups, I give students opportunities to check in with one another around their learning, ask questions, guide one another and reflect together. I can work well in both situations."

What are your thoughts on public vs. private education?

"I can understand why some people would want their children in private school as much as I understand the draw of public school. Not everyone can afford the luxury of a private school, but I am thankful that our public school system offers great education with such little cost associated. In my opinion, as long as our kids are receiving a valuable education, then who am I to say whether one is better than the other."

The topic of public vs. private education is a hot one! When asked to discuss a controversial topic in an interview, it is best to avoid offending statements or pushing any buttons. Give a relatively cooled opinion on both sides and leave it at that.

"I primarily stand behind public education because it is affordable for everyone, and it provides educational access to anyone regardless of their social standing. Public schools often offer a wider variety of classes, and classrooms are more likely to offer a more diverse range of students. With that said, I do understand why some parents prefer private education for their children. Perhaps it's a family tradition, or they prefer the coursework and other opportunities that come along with a private facility."

"I think that whether to go to a public or private school depends on the child as well as the family's situation. Ideally, parents want to find the best school for their particular child at one point in his or her life. A small, supportive school might be perfect for a child who is feeling anxious, but it might be stifling for a child who loves competition and challenge. Some children need structure, and others love to learn in a more spontaneous way. Some people can afford to send their children to private schools while others cannot. The choice is a personal one based on people's views, their monetary situation, and their ability to thrive in certain environments."

If you could be a subject matter expert in any subject of your choice, which would you choose?

"Ever since I was a child, I have been fascinated with mechanics and design. I would build models of airplanes and cars in my room for hours at a time. I still have a very keen interest in design, so I would say that if I could be a subject matter expert on any topic - I would choose mechanical engineering."

Talk to the interviewer about the topics that pique your interest the most. If you could immerse yourself in a particular subject, consider where you feel the most comfortable and confident and explain why. You can make your answer a bit lighthearted and personal if you wish.

"That's a great question! In my spare time, I do a lot of reading on socioeconomic-related matters. I would love to be seen as a subject matter expert in how race and social standing directly impact career choice variables. It's all very fascinating to me."

"I love reading and writing and have always been fascinated with the origin of words! I have taken several great courses classes in our lexicon and the evolution of words. I would love to work as a linguist."

Tell me about an organization or group outside of work that you contributed to.

"For the past eight months, I have volunteered every Wednesday evening at our local animal shelter. I will help with grooming the animals, feeding them, and walking them. It's been an enjoyable experience and rewarding at the same time. I've met a lot of new people, learned a ton about animals, and already feel like a leader at the shelter."

Many hiring managers will choose one candidate over another because of their volunteer experience. They feel that it shows strong character and selflessness - all qualities that make a great employee. Talk to the interviewer about your willingness to give back to your community in some form of volunteerism. If you do not have formal volunteer experience, you can draw on things you do in your spare time to assist friends, family, or even your current employer.

"For example: "I have not formally volunteered in these most recent years. However, I spend a lot of time helping my sister, who is a single mom. I will babysit on weekends, cook dinners for her, and drive the kids to appointments when necessary. I feel that it is important to take care of the needs of the family."

"I trained to become a volunteer as a Wish Granter for the MakeaWish organization. I wanted to utilize my strong communication and organizational skills to help children who suffer from cancer. After my training sessions, my elderly mother became so ill that she needed me to assist her. I made her doctor's appointments and accompanied her to them, drove her around, coordinated our travel arrangements for her medical care, and took care of my mother's personal and medical needs. I do not regret my decision to make my mother feel more comfortable by becoming her caregiver. I hope to return to volunteering with MakeaWish at some point in the future."

Take a few minutes to walk me through your post-secondary education.

"I graduated with a Bachelor's of Outdoor Leadership and Education from Toccoa Falls College in 2006. My experience in that program was great! Even though I worked part-time, I was still able to make the Dean's list, received a partial scholarship, and graduated top of my class."

Your post-secondary education is likely listed on your resume; however, this is an opportunity to talk to the interviewer about your overall experience. Discuss any accolades and special recognition you may have received. You can also discuss a class or a project that impacted you the most during that time.

"In 2009, I completed my Bachelor's of Education and immediately followed that with a Masters' Degree in English. I am very proud of my educational background and am happy with the opportunities this level of education has allowed me. I would love to continue this education down the road to include a Doctorate."

"I earned a bachelor's degree in Radio/TV Broadcasting, a Master of Science degree in Elementary Education, and a Master of Arts degree in Educational Counseling. During my teaching internship, I produced a play about Lewis and Clark using a 48-student cast and professionally made costumes and backdrops. My graduate school advisor attended the play and said it was the most professional school play he had ever seen. I also produced a professional video to celebrate the first anniversary of a new school where I taught. The superintendent of the school district attended and enjoyed watching the video."

At Varsity Tutors we put a strong emphasis on continued education. We believe that there is always more to learn. How do you feel about continued education?

"I wholeheartedly agree that education is essential. We can always learn more! I like to take a short course or workshop 3-4 times per year. These courses have included additional computer, leadership, and mentorship-related training."

Of course, education is important when you are working in the education industry! Assure the interviewer that you are not resistant to continued education. Perhaps there is a course, program, or workshop that you are personally interested in. Discuss with the interviewer your passion for education.

"Continued education is imperative to my growth as an education professional. I feel strongly about continuing to grow my knowledge in this industry. Could you give me some examples of the ways that Varsity Tutors emphasizes continued education in its employees?"

"I feel strongly about continuing my education. I take courses from the Great Courses, Vegas PBS, and The University of Iowa. I will continue to participate in courses offered by Varsity Tutors to enhance my learning and expand my teaching skills."

What is your greatest strength when it comes to tutoring?

"My greatest strength as a tutor is my ability to cater my teaching to each individual student based on their needs. When working with new students, I provide a learning style inventory to both the student and the parent in order to gauge their preferred learning style. Then, I strategically plan lessons to play on those strengths and how they learn best. My teaching is very intentional and focused; I love the challenging of working with different students."

Of course you have several personal and professional strengths, but consider the one strength that is most relevant to your success as a tutor. Share that with the interviewer, as well as an example or anecdote that highlights this strength well. Don't be afraid to brag a little about yourself, your accomplishments, or positive feedback you've received for a job well done.

"My greatest strength as a tutor is my ability to gauge when a student is lost or does not understand the material. I can pause my lesson for a moment to speak with my student about why they feel frustrated or lost so that I redirect or restart my lesson to give my student a fresh start. I can reteach the material in a different way to see if my student gains a more comprehensive understanding of the material.ORMy greatest strength as a tutor is my ability to motivate my student to want to learn more about a particular subject. I give my student encouraging words and hand signals after he or she learns a new skill and attempts to practice it. I also encourage my student to ask as many questions as possible which encourages them to continue learning."

What leadership qualities do you possess?

"I am an excellent listener, and I value feedback so that I hear diverse perspectives and am always learning and growing. I am also a strong planner, and I know how to delegate effectively. I am straightforward and a strong communicator. All of these things help me to connect well with others, set and achieve goals, and lead a successful team."

Some great qualities of a leader are:- Being someone who people naturally want to follow - Exceptional interpersonal skills - Strong relationship building skills - Taking ownership for the team's errors and mistakes - Excelling at motivating others - Providing kudos to your team - Knowing how to select and hire the right people to join the team - Having a vision for the futureThese are just a few to get started! Consider which qualities you most identify with and explain why these are important.

"I possess great leadership qualities that include diligence, tenacity, and open communication. I look forward to taking these skills to work for you!"

"I establish a good rapport with my students to build a positive relationship with them. I try to make learning fun and am consistent in guiding my students to set and reach their academic and personal goals. I exude my passion for teaching and learning, am organized, and have a sense of purpose in everything I do in the classroom. These leadership qualities assist me in motivating, guiding, and communicating with my students."

What are your salary expectations?

"Currently, I earn a base salary of $45,000 per year plus a potential 20% annual bonus. Last year my earnings were $52,000, and I would like to stay in the same range or slightly higher. I feel that is a fair exchange for what I will bring to the team."

The best way to discuss your salary expectations is to use your current earnings as an example. Be open and honest. Transparency is the best choice when salary based questions arise.

"I am currently making $80,000 per year. I am looking for compensation that is aligned with the role and provides an opportunity for growth."

"I expect to earn an hourly compensation that is aligned with my position as a tutor and provides an opportunity for growth."

Give an example of when you used your listening skills to solve a problem.

"My current principal is very brief in her communication, which sometimes creates confusion within the faculty. Last month she asked me to run a report on a student whose parents she was meeting with the next day. I wasn't entirely sure that I understood what she was asking. After she finished telling me what she was looking for, I repeated it back to her. I will often use qualifying questions such as, 'So what you're asking is...?' or 'Do you mean that you want me to do (X)?' This seems to avoid a lot of unnecessary problems down the road."

The interviewer wants to see that you have strong listening skills. They want to know that you aren't the type to interrupt before hearing your co-workers out. When it comes to using your listening skills while receiving direction from your employer, asking for clarification can save you a lot of grief down the road! Show that you are one to check for complete understanding when you are navigating new territory. Highlight to the interviewer that you are the type to attentively listen and troubleshoot problems in a collaborative style. Someone with good listening skills will: - Give the speaker their full attention - Maintain proper eye contact - Show invested interest by nodding or agreeing - Avoid interrupting - Ask for clarification if needed - Make statements such as 'If I understand you correctly...' or 'Do you mean that you want...'Give an example that demonstrates how you avoided miscommunication by using your stellar listening skills!

"In today's world, communication is more important than ever. I solved a problem using my listening skills during a parent-teacher meeting that took place in Spanish. After we discussed the fact that her daughter's grades were slipping significantly, my student's mother described her situation at home. She told me that none of her daughter's previous teachers would listen to her because she did not speak any English. I used non-verbal cues such as maintaining eye contact, nodding my head and smiling, and consistently paraphrasing what was said. Once I understood that the mother's husband had lost his job several years prior to our meeting, I asked her if their family was moving around a great deal, if their daughter was sleeping and eating well, and if she had a quiet place to do her homework. By providing this feedback, my student's mother felt more at ease communicating. I expressed her concerns to my principal who contacted several social services agencies and a social worker in order to help the family. A few months after our meeting, my student's grades began to go up and she seemed to have more confidence in herself."

When entering a new job, describe how you build relationships with your new coworkers and supervisors.

"I understand that some relationships come quickly and others take time to nurture. When starting a new job, all I can do is be my true self and let my personality, integrity, and reliability speak for themselves. I also like to ask people about their families and interests outside of work to get to know them on a more personal level and better relate to them."

Due to a wide variety of personalities, relationships can take time to form. Being sure to have open communication and allow for casual conversation to get to know people personally is essential. Share some of your values and how those help you to build meaningful relationships with people.

"I get along well with most personalities. My colleagues were great team players, and we would often meet up after work for drinks or team activities. I would start there when starting a new job. Becoming involved in post-work activities and continuing to be the social person that I am."

"In order to build new relationships when I start working for a new company, I take a variety of actions. I arrive early to spend a few moments getting to know my new colleagues or supervisors on a one-on-one basis. I ask them about themselves and contribute equally to the conversation. As an active listener, I let them know that I am there to listen. By working hard and knowing when and how to request assistance from my colleagues and supervisors, I begin to build an excellent reputation. I also work to understand what everyone's role is around me so that I can contribute to the success of my team specifically and my company in general. By taking these actions, I can demonstrate that I am a strong independent worker as well as a valuable team player."

Do you think honesty is always the best policy?

"Sometimes full disclosure can damage someone's self-esteem, and reality isn't always best expressed in full and can be self-indulgent based on a person's intention. In those instances, honesty isn't always the best policy. However, when it comes to offering feedback and an employee's ability to be trusted, honest is very important."

Companies value employees who show integrity, offer honest feedback and can be trusted with sensitive information. However, some things are better left unsaid to protect people's feelings and privacy. Talk to the interviewer about your thoughts on honesty in the workplace.

"Honesty is always the best policy. Often, it is just a matter of how you communicate and deliver your message, so managing this with each situation is critical to building honest and trusting relationships."

"I believe that honesty is always the best policy as long as the message is communicated in a helpful and non-judgmental way. I will model ways to be honest with my students without hurting their feelings so that will be able to create and shape their connections with their fellow students, family members, and friends."

Varsity Tutors Interview Questions

Go Back

1. Tell me about your greatest work-related accomplishment.
2. When have you had to adapt to change?
3. How do you go about differentiating lessons?
4. How do you handle stress on the job?
5. At Varsity Tutors we seek to hire those who are passionate about education. How would you describe your teaching/mentorship style?
6. List the top 3 skills that you have acquired in your last role.
7. Do you always double check or proofread your work?
8. If you could start your career over again, what direction would you take?
9. What questions do you have for me?
10. Share about a time you experienced a breakdown in communication and how you responded to it.
11. Explain how you prefer to communicate with parents.
12. How do you believe you will compliment our department, if you were hired?
13. Private and franchised adult learning institutions have greatly increased in popularity over the years. Do you see value in these institutions? Why or why not?
14. In this position you may be working with individuals who are underage and/or vulnerable. We do full background checks on all of our employees. Are you willing to comply?
15. In our industry, your day may not be a typical 8AM - 4PM. Are you willing to work overtime and participate in extra-curricular activities?
16. How do you like to encourage ideas in others?
17. What is a weakness of yours that you are actively working to improve?
18. Why do you want this job with Varsity Tutors?
19. How do you define success?
20. Tell me about a teacher, leader, or mentor who affected your life in a positive way.
21. What is your teaching philosophy?
22. At Varsity Tutors, we seek to hire the most compassionate individuals. Do you consider yourself compassionate?
23. Tell me something about yourself that I wouldn't know from reading your resume.
24. Do you prefer working with a student one-on-one or with a larger class of students?
25. What are your thoughts on public vs. private education?
26. If you could be a subject matter expert in any subject of your choice, which would you choose?
27. Tell me about an organization or group outside of work that you contributed to.
28. Take a few minutes to walk me through your post-secondary education.
29. At Varsity Tutors we put a strong emphasis on continued education. We believe that there is always more to learn. How do you feel about continued education?
30. What is your greatest strength when it comes to tutoring?
31. What leadership qualities do you possess?
32. What are your salary expectations?
33. Give an example of when you used your listening skills to solve a problem.
34. When entering a new job, describe how you build relationships with your new coworkers and supervisors.
35. Do you think honesty is always the best policy?

Varsity Tutors Interview Questions

1. Tell me about your greatest work-related accomplishment.

2. When have you had to adapt to change?

3. How do you go about differentiating lessons?

4. How do you handle stress on the job?

5. At Varsity Tutors we seek to hire those who are passionate about education. How would you describe your teaching/mentorship style?

6. List the top 3 skills that you have acquired in your last role.

7. Do you always double check or proofread your work?

8. If you could start your career over again, what direction would you take?

9. What questions do you have for me?

10. Share about a time you experienced a breakdown in communication and how you responded to it.

11. Explain how you prefer to communicate with parents.

12. How do you believe you will compliment our department, if you were hired?

13. Private and franchised adult learning institutions have greatly increased in popularity over the years. Do you see value in these institutions? Why or why not?

14. In this position you may be working with individuals who are underage and/or vulnerable. We do full background checks on all of our employees. Are you willing to comply?

15. In our industry, your day may not be a typical 8AM - 4PM. Are you willing to work overtime and participate in extra-curricular activities?

16. How do you like to encourage ideas in others?

17. What is a weakness of yours that you are actively working to improve?

18. Why do you want this job with Varsity Tutors?

19. How do you define success?

20. Tell me about a teacher, leader, or mentor who affected your life in a positive way.

21. What is your teaching philosophy?

22. At Varsity Tutors, we seek to hire the most compassionate individuals. Do you consider yourself compassionate?

23. Tell me something about yourself that I wouldn't know from reading your resume.

24. Do you prefer working with a student one-on-one or with a larger class of students?

25. What are your thoughts on public vs. private education?

26. If you could be a subject matter expert in any subject of your choice, which would you choose?

27. Tell me about an organization or group outside of work that you contributed to.

28. Take a few minutes to walk me through your post-secondary education.

29. At Varsity Tutors we put a strong emphasis on continued education. We believe that there is always more to learn. How do you feel about continued education?

30. What is your greatest strength when it comes to tutoring?

31. What leadership qualities do you possess?

32. What are your salary expectations?

33. Give an example of when you used your listening skills to solve a problem.

34. When entering a new job, describe how you build relationships with your new coworkers and supervisors.

35. Do you think honesty is always the best policy?