The Challenge We’re Solving Today
Many teachers think they should only talk about their wins when applying for jobs. But here’s a secret: talking about a mistake you made (and how you fixed it) can actually help you get hired.
Why?
Because solving problems with other adults (like teammates or school leaders) is one of the most important skills in the business world.
And guess what?
You’ve already done that in your teaching job.
Why This Matters to You
When you leave the classroom, it’s important to show that you know how to work with others, especially when it’s hard.
Hiring managers want to see that you:
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Can handle tough situations
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Can work well with a team
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Know how to fix problems.
Telling the story of something that didn’t go well (and what you did to fix it) shows all of that.
Common Solutions and Why They Might Not Work
Most people try to hide their mistakes.
They only talk about things that went well.
But here’s the problem...
if you only share perfect stories, you sound. just. like. everyone. else.
You miss the chance to show that you can learn, grow, and work through problems...all the things that really matter in the workplace.
A Better Approach for You
Try this simple step:
✏️ Write a short post on LinkedIn (just 1 paragraph).
Include:
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What went wrong – Share a time when a plan didn’t work out.
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What you did next – Explain how you fixed it or what you learned. Bonus points for creating a system/tool/process that can live on well after you're gone from that position.
Example:
One year, I worked on a school project with other teachers, but it didn’t go well. We didn’t agree on the goals, and I didn’t make sure we were all on the same page. I took responsibility and planned a new meeting where we set clear steps together. The project went much better after that. Now, I always start by checking that everyone understands the plan.
This shows that you’re honest, thoughtful, and know how to work with a team...just the kind of person companies want to hire.
Summary
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Mistakes aren’t bad. They’re proof that you’ve learned and grown.
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The way you solve problems with other adults matters to employers.
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Sharing a short story about how you fixed something shows real strength.
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It makes you stand out in a good way.
Your Next Steps
✅ Think of a time something didn’t go well at work.
✅ Write 1 paragraph: What went wrong, and what you did next.
✅ Post it on LinkedIn (or save it for interviews).
✅ Practice saying it out loud with confidence.
P.s.
If you want help turning your teaching experience into strong career stories like this, that’s exactly what we focus on in the Elevated Careers Career Change Accelerator™. You already have what it takes. I help you show it.
**If you do this activity, tag me in your LinkedIn post. I'd love to know about your "hidden wins."
See you next week.
Steph Yesil
Find me on LinkedIn, Get My Career Change Kit,
Book a 60-Min Strategy Call
