Looking for your next teaching job? Don’t overlook one of your most powerful tools: your network.
Networking can help you discover job openings before they’re posted, get honest insight into a school’s culture, and stay connected to what’s happening in education. Even better? It doesn’t require fancy introductions or a huge following. Just a little consistency—and a willingness to connect.
Here are simple, effective ways to grow your network.
Reconnect with People You Already Know
Start with the people who already know your strengths: former coworkers, classmates, mentors, or supervisors. These are folks who can offer encouragement, introduce you to school leaders, or vouch for your teaching skills. Reach out with intention:
- Mention a shared experience or project you worked on together
- Ask about what they’ve been up to professionally
- Let them know what kind of role you’re exploring now
- Invite them to a short virtual coffee chat
Even one conversation can open a door. Once people know you’re looking, they’re likely to think of you when they hear of an opportunity.
Join Professional Communities
Teaching associations are more than just membership lists; they’re hubs for learning and connection. Most associations host conferences, webinars, or local meetups. These can be great ways to meet people outside your school bubble—and learn something new while you’re at it.
There are many associations to choose from including at the national, state or local levels and for different subject or focus areas. A good place to start is with your state’s NEA (National Education Association) affiliate. Examples of subject-specific associations are National Council of Teachers of English and National Council of Teachers of Mathematics. To find more that are relevant to you, do an internet search for "teacher associations in [your state].”
Show Up to School and District Events
You don’t have to wait for a formal networking opportunity. School and district events are a natural space to meet other educators and decision-makers. Look for ways to get involved such as joining a curriculum committee, presenting at a PD session, volunteering at a community night or school fair or attending school board meetings. These events let people see your strengths in action while providing you a clearer sense of which schools align with your values.
Use Digital Tools to Strengthen Connections
In-person moments matter, but digital platforms can help you maintain those relationships, and expand your reach. LinkedIn is designed for professional networking. As you meet new educators and leaders, connect with them on LinkedIn. Comment on their posts and share updates of your own. Be sure to have a clear headline for your profile that reflects your current role and goals (e.g., “Middle School Math Teacher | Bilingual Educator | Project-Based Learning Advocate”).
Facebook has groups where teachers share resources and crowdsource advice. Search for groups in your state or city and join the discussion. You might also learn about teacher hiring fairs or other education-related events in your area. Just remember to maintain professionalism in all your online interactions.
Attend Job Fairs and Conferences
Whether virtual or in person, education-focused job fairs or principal “meet and greets” are great ways to meet school leaders face-to-face. Before you go, research the schools that will be there and prepare a 60-second pitch about who you are and what you’re looking for. Having printed resumes will help the school leaders attribute your name with you, the person they enjoyed talking to.
If a school interests you but is not currently hiring for a role that aligns to your experience, check the school’s website and social media to keep abreast of public-facing events and opportunities you could attend. Respectfully demonstrate interest and persistence, so when the right opening comes up, you’ve already made a solid impression.
Follow Up and Stay in Touch
Following up is what turns a quick introduction into a lasting connection. Try to send a simple message within 1–2 days of meeting someone. You could mention something you discussed, share a relevant resource or article, or suggest a quick call or virtual chat. Some examples:
- It was great talking about your school’s STEM initiative at the job fair. I’d love to learn more about how your team integrates tech in the classroom.
- Thanks for the PD session on trauma-informed practices. I shared your book recommendation with my team, and we’re already incorporating some of the ideas.
Make Networking a Habit, Not a One-Time Task
The best way to build your network is to treat it like a regular part of your teaching life, not just something you do when you’re job hunting. Try setting a simple routine:
- Weekly: Reach out to 3–5 educators via email, or through social media.
- Monthly: Attend one event (either virtual or in-person)
- Quarterly: Join or get more involved with a professional association
- Ongoing: Share your teaching wins or favorite classroom strategies online
While a strong educator network can be a huge help for job-seeking, the benefits of having one will extend throughout your career and beyond.
.avif)