Q: They know, and I know, and they know that I know, that the last person in the job was, to put it mildly, a disaster. He came in from outside promising the sun, moon and stars, and delivered nothing. He only lasted 18 months in the job. Did he fall or was he pushed? Who knows. But my dilemma is this: how do I put myself forward for the job without criticising him in the interview – or should I criticise him? I was angry I didn’t get the job last time. (FS, email).
Liam Horan, BALLINROBE Tel: 094 95 42965
A: There’s a lot in what you’ve just asked, and I will try to deal with it as best I can, writes Liam Horan, career coach, Sli Nua Careers.
If at all possible, I would desist from criticising the previous incumbent. Be bigger than that. The fallen/pushed candidate has probably done you a favour by tipping the company back in favour of in-house candidates. Most likely, the people interviewing you now also interviewed him – don’t remind them of their error.
Instead, look to the future. Have ideas for the role. What would you bring in? How would you do things? Where would you take it? In so doing, you don’t need to criticise the previous incumbent, but, in a subtle way, you demonstrate how you will be different.
Put your anger to one side. The last fixture cannot be replayed. This is your time to show that you are keen to take on the role, and that you are ready to roll, as outlined in No. 2 above.
Live Webinar / Webinar Beo will help students as CAO… by Liam December 22, 2021 As the Central Admissions Office (CAO) deadline looms, second-level students and their families are invited to a free Live Webinar / Webinar Beo with renowned careers expert, Brian Mooney. De réir mar a thagann spriocdháta na Príomh-Oifige Iontrála (CAO) níos…
Teachers, remember to read the question by Liam July 24, 2023 Q: “I am a qualified and experienced teacher looking for a permanent teaching post. I have subbed, filled-in and temped for two years now. I know I am a good teacher; I love my job and my students, but am…
Tips for writing a great personal statement by Liam March 27, 2023 Start early: Give yourself enough time to research, plan and write your personal statement. This will allow you to reflect on your experiences, articulate your goals, and ensure that your statement is well-crafted. Research the programme: Before you start writing,…
Webinar will outline range of further education and training… by Liam November 12, 2021 Anyone over the age of 16 thinking of continuing or returning to education or training in Co. Mayo will get invaluable insights at a special webinar on Wednesday next. ‘Welcome to FET! – Further Education and Training Opportunities in Mayo’…
How to handle the conflict question in job interviews by Liam November 16, 2022 A question that regularly comes up in job interviews for teachers, assistant principals, deputy principals and principals is ‘how do you deal with conflict?’ It can really throw candidates so it is important to be prepared beforehand, writes Patricia Maloney,…
AUDIO: Firing the big shot in the application form by Liam April 21, 2023 Q: “I am filling out an application form for an Assistant Principal 11 (AP11) position in my school. I've been asked to give one example of where I showed excellence in Leading Teaching & Learning, Managing an Organisation, Leading School…
