Are you ready for your next school contract? Do you want to expand your professional network and experience? Consider working with a staffing agency like AB Staffing. We specialize in matching teachers and education professionals with positions that offer earning power and job security.
For educators and school professionals seeking their next contract, timing is everything. Here’s how to plan effectively and maximize your opportunities by connecting with a staffing agency early.
Plan Ahead: Understanding the School Hiring Schedule
The earlier you begin planning for your next school contract, the better. Proactively seeking out staffing agencies and starting conversations now can give you an edge in the competitive education job market. Early communication allows professionals to access better opportunities, experience smoother transitions, and gain job security long before the new school year begins.
- East Coast/Midwest: Schools in these regions typically start planning and hiring in May/June for the following academic year.
- Arizona: Schools in Arizona often begin hiring as early as April since their school year starts in July.
- West Coast: Schools in this region generally start hiring between April and May.
Benefits of Working with a Staffing Agency
Working with a staffing agency offers its advantages, including:
- Expert Guidance: Agencies like AB Staffing have experienced recruiters who understand the education sector and can match you with the right opportunities.
- Access to Exclusive Opportunities: Agencies often have access to job openings that are not publicly advertised.
- Streamlined Job Search: Agencies manage much of the application process, saving time and effort.
- Ongoing Support: Staffing agencies provide continued support throughout your contract, ensuring you have the necessary resources to succeed. AB Staffing offers dedicated Recruiters who work with you to find the opportunities that fit best for you and your career.
- Flexible Opportunities: Staffing agencies connect you with positions that fit your lifestyle, whether you’re seeking short-term, long-term, or travel-based contracts.
Having an idea of your desired job and communicating that to your recruiter will help you land the best position possible.
Benefits of Early Communication
By contacting a staffing agency early, you gain several key advantages:
- More Job Options: Early outreach allows you to access a broader range of positions, giving you more choices in preferred locations and school types.
- Smoother Onboarding: Early planning ensures you have enough time to complete paperwork, certifications, and other onboarding requirements without stress.
- Time to Negotiate: With ample time before the school year begins, you’ll have a better opportunity to discuss contract terms, salary, and benefits.
- Reduced Stress: Avoid the anxiety of last-minute job hunting by planning.
You may also be able to travel as an education professional and live in places you’ve always wanted. Some areas are in demand, so starting your search as soon as possible is essential.
What to Prepare Before Contacting a School Staffing Agency
To streamline the process and present yourself as a top candidate, have the following ready:
- Updated Resume and Certifications: Ensure your resume is current, accurately highlights your experience, and includes all relevant certifications.
- Job Preferences: Identify your preferences for location, school settings, and classroom types to help the agency match you with suitable opportunities.
- Questions About Contracts: Be prepared to discuss any questions about contract terms, expectations, and benefits.
- References: Let your references know you’re looking for a new opportunity. If you have job descriptions available, share those and offer ways the reference can highlight your experience in their conversations.
If you have these available digitally, you can send information quicker, putting you at the top of the candidate pool.
How to Choose the Right Staffing Agency
Not all staffing agencies are the same, so finding one that meets your needs is crucial. Ask these key questions before committing:
- Experience: How many years of experience does the agency have in the education sector?
- Support: What support do they provide their contractors throughout the school year?
- Benefits and Perks: What additional benefits or perks do they offer to help you succeed?
We encourage you to ask questions before signing a contract with an agency. If you feel you’re not getting the answers you want, try another agency. When you find the right match, you will know because it will be an easy conversation, and your questions will be answered to your satisfaction.
Now is a great time to start working with a staffing agency. We’re getting ready to hire teachers in Arizona and the West Coast and would love to talk with you.
If you’re ready to start securing your next school contract, check out the AB Staffing Education Job Board and contact us today!