5 Tips to Find Education Jobs Outside the Classroom
For educators and former teachers looking for alternative career paths, the journey can be both exciting and challenging. Whether you're seeking a part-time or full-time role (or you’re just starting to explore your career options), the process of finding education jobs outside the classroom requires a thoughtful, strategic approach.
In this blog, we'll share five essential tips to guide you through the job search process, helping you to not only discover opportunities but also move closer to landing the right role for your skills and aspirations.
Whether you’re interested in teaching jobs outside the classroom or dream of starting your own education business, these tips can help you make working outside the classroom a reality.
How to Find Education Jobs Outside the Classroom
Does searching for your next role beyond the classroom feel overwhelming? These tips will guide you through the process so you can navigate your options with confidence and ease.
1. Use Strategic Search Terms to Find Alternative Careers for Teachers
As you embark on your job search online, it’s important to use the right search terms. Your searches, whether on job search sites like Indeed or on LinkedIn, should include keywords that reflect your skills, interests, and specific roles.
Instead of generic terms like "jobs for teachers," try more specific phrases like "elementary educational consultant," "social-emotional learning curriculum developer," “high school instructional coach,” or "virtual middle school math teacher." Using specific terms will narrow your search results and lead you to more relevant opportunities.
2. Explore Organizations You Like or Know
When looking for education jobs outside the classroom, consider organizations you’re already familiar with that align with your values and goals. Are there education companies (or non-profits) that you enjoy utilizing or that resonate with your educational philosophy? Start to create a list of potential companies and organizations where you might like to work.
Consider exploring ed tech companies, education publishers and textbook companies, nonprofits, online learning platforms, children’s media outlets, or education agencies. Familiarize yourself with their mission, values, and projects.
This not only helps you identify organizations where you would thrive but also enables you to tailor your potential applications and think about how you could showcase how your skills and expertise align with their goals.
3. Be Intentional with Each Application
In your eagerness to be working outside the classroom, it's tempting to send out a blanket resume to potential employers for every job you apply to. However, a more targeted and intentional approach is key to landing alternative jobs for teachers.
Tailor your resume and cover letter for each application, highlighting specific experiences, skills, and achievements relevant to the position. This not only demonstrates your genuine interest but also increases your chances of standing out in a competitive job market.
4. Don’t Underestimate the Power of Networking to Find Education Jobs Outside the Classroom
Utilize your personal and professional network to its fullest potential. Connect with others, attend events, and join online communities related to your desired field. Networking can provide valuable insights, advice, and even job leads that might not be advertised publicly.
Reach out to any former colleagues, friends, or other contacts in fields that you are interested in. Prepare a few questions and see what insight you can gain through your conversation. Don't underestimate the power of informal conversations and sharing what you’re after with people.
LinkedIn is great for both connecting with people and searching for jobs. You can try searching LinkedIn using your ideal job title, and then reach out to see if people would be willing to have a conversation... or look at profiles to gain insight into people’s career trajectories.
5. Continuously Learn and Develop Skills
As you transition beyond the classroom, be open to acquiring new skills and knowledge. The education landscape is ever-evolving, and staying current is crucial.
Consider leveling up your skills, taking online courses, attending workshops, or pursuing certifications relevant to your target industry. Showcasing your commitment to professional development on your resume is valuable and demonstrates to potential employers that you are adaptable and invested in your own growth.
Whether it's familiarizing yourself with Canva, exploring Google Suite, or completing certification to find and land jobs in curriculum development, educator communities like our Educator Forever Network act as valuable resources for continuous growth and improvement.
What Are Some Careers for Teachers Besides Teaching?
When it comes to finding education jobs outside the classroom, the opportunities are virtually limitless. Educator Forever has helped thousands of teachers find alternative careers, from freelance positions and remote full-time jobs to entrepreneurship.
Here are just a few examples of the kind of jobs you could find outside the classroom:
Learn more about some of the alternative career paths the Educator Forever team has explored.
Get More Support to Find Jobs Outside the Classroom
Finding your next role beyond the classroom is a journey that requires strategy and resilience.
At Educator Forever, we understand the unique challenges educators face when transitioning to new careers and have helped thousands of teachers find flexible, sustainable new careers beyond the classroom (still in education!).
You don’t have to figure it all out on your own. Our Educator Forever Network provides the skills, strategies, and mindset shifts necessary for success.
Through the Network, you’ll get instant access to a private jobs board, live weekly calls (career and skills-related), workshops, our signature Beyond the Classroom course, and a supportive community,
Sign up now and let us support you in finding the perfect next step in your career journey. Your exciting future beyond the classroom awaits!