Teacher keeps failing to land a job as an administrator

Q: I’m a teacher who wants to be an administrator. I did all the training to change tracks, and I took on a team leadership position in my school to build my resume. I told everyone I worked with about my plans, and then I interviewed for jobs. I had four interviews but didn’t get a position. That was disappointing but not the end of the world. Unfortunately, that was three years ago. Every year, I land a few interviews but end up with no job. At this point, everyone in my school knows I can’t make this happen. A colleague told me several coworkers are really nasty about me behind my back. They think I should give it up already — that I’m pathetic and ridiculous. At what point should I throw in the towel, and how can I shake off my feelings of embarrassment?

A: First, it’s great that you obtained extra training and an internal leadership position. I also give you credit for not backing away when others might have said “enough.” Angela Duckworth delivered the famous TED talk on grit, in which she emphasized the importance of maintaining passion for long-term goals, managing fear, and staying in the game when the going gets rough. Basically, putting one foot in front of the other despite setbacks. Gritty people are optimistic, and you’ve hung onto your positive outlook for a while.

Still, I worry that you’re missing something here. Each interview season presents an opportunity to collect information. Have you asked for feedback from your interviewers? Have you taken a hard look at your resume? Have you talked to the people you listed as references? What about the people you supervise internally at your school? Does anyone have any suggestions for improvement? Have you had an honest talk with your current principal about your growth edges? Even if everyone sings your praises and expresses disbelief at your lack of luck, you may get some constructive tips.