The Waiting Game: What to Do After Your TEFL Interview

You’ve just finished your TEFL interview. It felt short, maybe only ten minutes. You answered questions about the school’s philosophy and programs, likely drawn straight from their website. You knew your stuff, perhaps even a little too well.

That moment of over-sharing is a familiar feeling. In your enthusiasm to demonstrate thorough research, you might have mentioned a specific partner company or supplier you’d seen connected to them. You noticed a subtle shift—a slight pause, a change in tone. The thought hits you: Was that too much? Did I just share something I shouldn’t have?

Now, the silence begins. The post-interview wait.

Decoding the Post-Interview Silence

First, breathe. That period of radio silence is universal and rarely a direct reflection of your performance. Schools, especially those hiring abroad, often interview many candidates and coordinate with multiple departments. A short interview isn’t necessarily a bad sign; some efficient schools have their process down to a fine art.

Your detailed knowledge is an asset, not a flaw. Showing you’ve done deep research on a school demonstrates genuine interest and initiative. While mentioning a specific external partner might have surprised the interviewer, it primarily shows you’re thorough. Don’t let one moment overshadow the overall impression of a prepared and engaged candidate.

The Timeline: How Long is Too Long?

So, how long should you wait for a reply? There’s no universal rule, but here’s a general framework:

• 1-3 Business Days: Too early to worry. The team is likely still debriefing.
• 5-7 Business Days: A reasonable window to consider sending a polite, concise follow-up email.
• 10+ Business Days: While silence can be frustrating, it’s time to mentally move forward and continue your application journey elsewhere.

The key is not to freeze your search during this wait. Keep applying to other positions. It maintains your momentum and provides valuable interview practice.

Your Action Plan While You Wait

Instead of refreshing your email every hour, take proactive steps:

1. Send a Thoughtful Thank-You Email. If you haven’t already, send a brief note within 24 hours of the interview. Thank them for their time, reiterate your enthusiasm for the role and their school’s mission, and briefly mention one key point from your conversation.

2. Conduct a Constructive Review. Jot down the questions you were asked and your answers. What flowed well? What would you clarify next time? This turns anxiety into professional development.

3. Continue Your Journey. Apply for other positions. Each application and interview hones your skills and builds confidence.

Embracing the Outcome

Remember, every interview is a two-way street. It’s as much about you assessing their communication style and professionalism as it is about them judging you. A school that leaves candidates in the dark for weeks might reveal a culture that isn’t the right fit for you.

Whether the answer is yes or no, you gain something. A “yes” launches your next adventure. A “no”—or even no reply—provides resilience and clarity, steering you toward the opportunity that is truly meant for you.

The path to teaching English abroad is rarely a straight line. It’s a journey of preparation, patience, and perseverance. Keep your passion alive, learn from each interaction, and trust that the right classroom is waiting for you.