Here's how you can revamp your resume and cover letter after a layoff.

1 Update Layout

When revising your resume after a layoff, consider refreshing the layout to make it more modern and readable. Use clean lines, ample white space, and a professional font to ensure your document is visually appealing. Tailor your resume to highlight the teaching skills most relevant to the positions you're targeting. For instance, if you're aiming for a role in a technology-forward school, emphasize your proficiency with educational software and online teaching platforms. Keep your work history concise, focusing on achievements and responsibilities that align with your career goals.

2 Highlight Skills

In the teaching profession, your unique skill set is your selling point. Use your resume to emphasize the skills that set you apart, such as curriculum development, classroom management, or special education expertise. After a layoff, it's particularly important to highlight transferable skills that could apply to a variety of educational settings. For example, your ability to adapt lesson plans for remote learning during the pandemic is an asset that demonstrates flexibility and innovation.

3 Craft Narrative

Your cover letter is where you can craft a narrative around your layoff and career trajectory. Approach this task with positivity and focus on the future. Explain the layoff as a part of your professional journey and emphasize what you've learned from the experience. Share how these lessons have prepared you for the next step in your teaching career. Be honest but optimistic, showing potential employers that you are resilient and ready to contribute to their team.

4 Update Experience

Make sure your resume reflects your most recent teaching experiences, including any freelance, volunteer work, or professional development you've undertaken since your layoff. This demonstrates your commitment to staying active and engaged in the field of education. If you've taken any courses or attended workshops to enhance your teaching skills, include these as well. This section should convey a narrative of growth and continuous learning.

5 Refine Language

The language in your resume and cover letter should be clear, concise, and free of jargon. Use action verbs to describe your accomplishments and responsibilities in a way that anyone—even someone outside the field of education—could understand. Avoid education-specific acronyms unless they are widely recognized. Remember, your application may first be read by human resources professionals before reaching the desk of an educational director.

6 Personalize Contact

Finally, personalize your cover letter for each job application. Research the school or educational institution to which you're applying and address the letter to the appropriate individual, such as the principal or hiring manager. Mention specific aspects of the school's culture or educational approach that resonate with you and explain how your teaching philosophy aligns with their values. This personal touch shows that you've invested time in understanding their needs and envisioning yourself as part of their team.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?