Tips on using Applitrack

[madowlspeaks]

When applying to positions, I am curious if redundant applications are being sent, or only those to the specific job?

[Johncn]

When applying to positions, I am curious if redundant applications are being sent, or only those to the specific job?

Hi,

Not entirely sure what you mean by redundant, but when you sign up for Applitrack it asks candidates what "pools" of jobs they are interested in. This means that districts can search for, say, a Math 7-12 pool of candidates, and then examine each candidate's file. They can also ask to be notified if new "pool" members sign up, or if the existing ones make changes or updates to their application.

However, when candidates apply for a specific job, then the district that posted the listing can click a hot link and see the candidates who have expressed an interest in that job and examine their applications. When you have expressed an interest in a job (routed it to the poster), each time you make changes to update or edit your application that employer is notified.

Finally, not all districts use Applitrack the same way. Some use it strictly as intended, while others use it as just a starting point for finding and contacting candidates they might be interested in and then asking them begin an alternative application process specific to their district or through their own website.

Hope this helps, but if we are off base, please clarify what you are seeking info about.

Regards,

John

[mrhazel]

Hi, thanks for that information on Applitrack - it's helpful.

A specific question I have is this: is it possible to maintain multiple applications or to post specific cover letters/resumes for each job to which I link my app?

I have certs in SpEd and Social Studies, and would like to apply to postings under both fields. However, I recognize districts (well, all but the smallest, anyway) generally want specialists who can teach well in one field. Because of this, I don't think a 'generalist' application will get me where I'd like to go.

So, is it possible to create/maintain separate applications to link to jobs in different cert. areas?

Or, is it possible to 'un-link' my application from postings I've applied to in SS, in order to modify and then submit my application to SpEd jobs (and vice versa)? I tried this, but it seems then I've removed myself from consideration for those SS jobs for which I've already applied, which I'd rather not do.

It's amazingly convenient to have a state-wide application, but I imagine I'm not the only one faced by the problem of it being overly broad for specific postings. Wondering about a way forward on this.

Any advice is helpful. Thanks in advance!

-Michael

[Johncn]

A specific question I have is this: is it possible to maintain multiple applications or to post specific cover letters/resumes for each job to which I link my app? ...I have certs in SpEd and Social Studies, and would like to apply to postings under both fields. However, I recognize districts (well, all but the smallest, anyway) generally want specialists who can teach well in one field. Because of this, I don't think a 'generalist' application will get me where I'd like to go.


Hello,

The short answer is that the Applitrack system is not designed to have custom cover letters or resumes for specific openings. Your information on your application should be the basics about you, a generic cover letter - not district or opening specific - and then you express your interest in the specific openings that you have an interest in, as well as the position "pools" (categories) you are interested in exploring. That does NOT mean you can't and shouldn't follow up with districts about specific openings in addition to just completing your application. The application is the first step. We recommend you complete it, and then target the district with the openings you are interested by email with a copy of your resume (which you can customize if you like) and a personalized cover letter.

As far as your comment about needing separate applications for your Social Studies and Special Education interests, I don't think having separate applications is either necessary or desirable. Districts will find you when searching for candidates in all the "pools" you indicate interest in. They will look at your multiple application, see your various certificates and be able to assess what role they can see for someone with your skill set just fine.

However, if you wanted to disregard this advice, your account is tied to specific email address. So, if you want to craft distinct "personalities" for the two certification areas, just use a different email address for each. Problem solved.

Hope this helps,

John

[mrhazel]

John,

Very helpful, thank you. I had assumed as much - I suppose some specificity is the trade-off for convenience.
I will make it a point to reach out to each district where there's a posting to which I've linked. I appreciate the advice.

-Michael