Making a follow-up call after a job interview can feel daunting for many people. However, this step is critical and can set you apart from other candidates. A well-timed follow-up demonstrates your professionalism, enthusiasm, and continued interest in the teaching position. Beyond a call, sending a personalized thank-you letter is another impactful way to leave a lasting impression. This article explores practical methods for following up after a teacher job interview, including best practices, timing, and leveraging feedback.
The Waiting Game: Managing Expectations After the Interview
Waiting for a response after an interview can be agonizing, especially when the opportunity aligns closely with your goals. If the interviewer provided a timeline for making a decision, respect that timeframe before initiating any follow-up communication. For instance, if they mentioned you’d hear back within a week, and that date has passed without any updates, it is reasonable to call the school to inquire about the status.
If no specific timeline was provided, a follow-up call is considered professional approximately one week after the interview. The key is to balance persistence with respect for their process.
Making the Follow-Up Call: Best Practices
When making a follow-up call, preparation is essential. Here are some actionable steps:
1. Identify the Right Contact
Ask to speak directly with the person who interviewed you. If unsure of their name, check any email correspondence or the school’s website.
2. Reintroduce Yourself
Begin the call with a clear introduction:
Example:
“Good morning, this is [Your Name]. I recently interviewed for the [Position Name] at [School Name] and wanted to follow up regarding the status of the hiring process.”
3. Show Gratitude
Thank the interviewer for their time and reiterate your enthusiasm for the position:
Example:
“I really appreciated the opportunity to discuss my qualifications and passion for teaching during our meeting. I am very eager to contribute to your team.”
4. Respect Their Timeline
If they mention that the hiring process is taking longer than anticipated, ask politely when it would be appropriate to follow up again.
Example:
“I understand these decisions take time. Would it be alright if I checked back with you in [specific timeframe]?”
5. Conclude Professionally
Always thank them again before ending the call:
Example:
“Thank you so much for your time and for keeping me informed. I hope to hear from you soon.”
When the News Isn’t What You Hoped For
If you learn that you were not selected for the position, it’s natural to feel disappointed. However, this is a valuable opportunity to seek constructive feedback. Politely ask the interviewer for insights into their decision:
Example:
“I appreciate you letting me know. If it’s not too much trouble, could you share any feedback on my interview or application that might help me improve in the future?”
Receiving this feedback can help you identify areas for growth and refine your approach for future opportunities. Regardless of the outcome, they express gratitude for their time and the chance to interview.
Celebrating Success: When You’re Offered the Job
If you receive an offer, congratulations! This is your moment to express genuine enthusiasm:
Example:
“Thank you so much for this opportunity! I am thrilled to join [School Name] and contribute to the success of your students.”
Before ending the call, ensure you have all the necessary information, such as:
- Start date
- Classroom location
- Dress code
- Orientation schedule (if applicable)
This is also the appropriate time to discuss contract details, salary, and other logistical matters if these topics were not addressed earlier. Clarifying these points will allow you to transition smoothly into your new role.
The Role of Thank-You Letters
While follow-up calls are crucial, don’t underestimate the impact of a well-crafted thank-you letter. This letter serves as a formal way to express appreciation and reinforce your interest in the position. Here’s a basic structure:
Opening Paragraph: Thank the interviewer for their time and reiterate your enthusiasm for the position.
Middle Paragraph(s): Highlight specific aspects of the interview or school that resonated with you, tying them back to your qualifications.
Closing Paragraph: Reiterate your interest and express hope to contribute to the school community.
Example:
“Dear [Interviewer’s Name],
Thank you for the opportunity to interview for the [Position Name] at [School Name]. I enjoyed learning more about your school’s commitment to [specific value or initiative discussed during the interview]. I am excited about possibly bringing my [specific skills/experience] to your team.
Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you need any additional information. I look forward to the opportunity to contribute to your school community.
Sincerely,[Your Name]”
Examples of Effective Follow-Up Methods
Method 1: Email Follow-Up
Email is a convenient option if calling feels too direct. Use a professional tone and include your full name, the position you interviewed for, and your interview date.
Method 2: Personalized Notes
Sending a handwritten thank-you note adds a personal touch that can make you memorable. Mail it promptly after your interview to ensure it arrives promptly.
Method 3: Professional Networking
If appropriate, connect with the interviewer on professional platforms like LinkedIn to express gratitude and stay on their radar for future opportunities.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- Over-Calling: Repeatedly calling for updates can annoy the hiring committee and harm your chances.
- Vague Communication: Be clear and concise about why you are following up.
- Forgetting to Prepare: Treat the follow-up call with the same professionalism as the interview itself.
- Failing to Show Gratitude: Always thank the interviewer, regardless of the outcome.
Conclusion
Following up after a teaching job interview is more than a courtesy—it’s a strategic move to demonstrate your professionalism and interest. You can leave a lasting positive impression by making a thoughtful phone call, sending a personalized thank-you note, and seeking constructive feedback. These steps enhance your chances of securing the position and equip you with insights to refine your approach for future opportunities.
