Dog Community

Job Interview (Update!!)

Posted : 10/11/2010 9:15:12 PM

So many of you know that I have been having a lot of trouble finding a teaching position (four years of subbing; this would be five). I am fed up with working two jobs, not having any health insurance, taking classes towards my masters, and always being exhausted. I was so exhausted all summer (I work in a boarding kennel) that I just couldn't enjoy myself. So, when I started volunteering at a local animal shelter, I thought I'd put in an application to be an adoption counselor.

I was contacted a few days ago because they are looking to hire someone full time, which means benefits! Also, I would be quitting my kennel job (after four years there, I will really miss the dogs) which means I will be only working one job and taking masters classes. I will still look for a permanent teaching position, however I won't be subbing. I am just so upset and feeling down about getting a job in teaching at this point, that I think a little break will be ok.

With any luck I will only be at this new job (if I get it) until next school year. I am excited, but also a bit nervous. I feel like I am going to have a lot to talk about, but I don't want to say too much.

I am still conflicted on how I should dress. I think it would be awkward to walk in there in heels and a nice outfit, but it is an interview. I'm just not sure. I also need to discuss the fact that I am taking grad classes so I will need three saturdays off between december and april for that. And then next summer I have three classes that are each 5 days long, so I would need fifteen days off for my classes throughout the summer.

They sound like they really need someone to start immediately and I could do that since I am only working 2 days a week at my other job since hours were cut drastically. And I could still put in my two weeks notice and start my new job. They are just so overcrowded with animals right now and they want to get as many adopted as possible. Also, the pay is based on experience. Not sure exactly what that means, but I think I know a bit more than the average applicant and I want to make that clear somehow. I also have experience with dogs, if that is what "experience" means. I spend a lot of time with groups of dogs at my other job, so a big part of it is reading signals and body language.

So wish me luck! And if anyone has any clothing advice for the interview, that would be greatly appreciated. (I already talked to Xebby, who also works there, about what she wore, but I am going for a different position and am just not sure)

Thanks!

BEVOLASVEGAS

Posted : 10/11/2010 9:31:21 PM

We have fingers & paws crossed for you!

calliecritturs

Posted : 10/11/2010 9:41:20 PM

Prayers and good thots!!!

Truley

Posted : 10/11/2010 9:42:33 PM

Good thoughts for you!

miranadobe

Posted : 10/11/2010 10:27:07 PM

When you interview, talk about any experiences or special skills you have that apply to reading between the lines, interpreting what someone means when they can't articulate their needs, sleuthing out the truth. Talk about your skills at persuasion and steering the conversation. Your role is more likely going to be human skills that they need, unless it's also your job to interpret the personalities of the animals at the facility.

I think the most important base-line for the adoption coordinator is being simultaneously open/warm/welcoming/encouraging... and not taking BS or believing everything they're told, etc. Adoptions that go wrong are most often when the prospective adopter tells a story about themselves (skills, resources, abilities, desires) that doesn't mesh with reality (deliberate or just rose-colored-glasses syndrome)... and when shelters tell similar stories about the animals in their care.

As for what to wear - think of that position as the "face" of the organization - how it presents itself to the community and potential adopters. Dress for the interview with that in mind. Khakis or similar casual pants are fine, jeans are ok if the shirt is a button-down or similar presentation of being put together. You want to look like you tried to look good, not just assumed the place was slobby just because they work with animals - especially in the Adoption Coordinator position.

GOOD LUCK!!

tacran

Posted : 10/11/2010 10:56:19 PM

Paige's post has excellent advice -- I think the skills they'll value are those that are needed for dealing with people even more so than those dealing with animals. Helping people make a good choice or "match" with the animal they want to add to their family is so important. I think a great counselor is one who can guide folks to a choice that has the best chance for success. For example, someone may come in with their heart set on the adorable Border Collie puppy they saw on the website, but after the counselor chats with them, she might learn that they have a rather sedentary lifestyle or work away from the home several hours a day, and an active breed would be a very poor match. It takes special "people skills" to help someone see that a different dog on the adoption floor might be more suited to their lifestyle.

My guess is that you've mastered quite a few of these skills during your years of substitute teaching. Managing a classroom definitely takes people skills, patience, reading behaviors and actions, etc. And as a sub, you have to adapt to changing situations all the time, since you aren't in one classroom with the same kids all year. If your shelter is like the one in our community, it's a hectic pace, lots of change each day, etc. You're ability to change gears and be flexible will serve you well. You're certainly better prepared than someone who's coming from a desk job sitting alone with a computer all day!

I also like Paige's suggestion about khakis or casual pants and a nice top. You want to look neat and presentable, but not so over-dressed that they'd think you don't know what's involved in that type of job. Adoption counselors at our local shelter wear casual pants, jeans, T-shirts, etc., and they always have closed-toe shoes, no dangling jewelry to get caught on things, etc.

I know you said you will continue to look for a full-time teaching position, but this will be a great experience in the meantime that can enhance your skills for your primary career. Good luck!!

james.matthew

Posted : 10/12/2010 3:25:48 AM

Sending you positive energy!

JackieG

Posted : 10/12/2010 5:19:31 AM

Tracy and Paige have given great advice on how to present your skills. Some sharply creased khaki pants and a nice jacket would be good to wear with some low heeled boots maybe.

Good luck. :)

janobonano

Posted : 10/12/2010 6:49:23 AM

Good luck!!!

the_gopher

Posted : 10/12/2010 6:51:08 AM

Happy for you! Good Luck!

Cita

Posted : 10/12/2010 7:50:51 AM

Wow, great advice, guys! I don't have anything to add, just some extra good luck :) I really do think your people skills from teaching would be a tremendous asset to the organization. And, working with Xebby? Cool!! :)