Spotting Red Flags During a Teacher Interview

Written By Jaime Knott

Let’s talk about something you might not even realize you should be paying attention to during your job hunt:

How the interview FEELS.

Because yes, the words you say in an interview matter... But so does the energy in the room.

If you’re so focused on giving the “right” answer that you’re not noticing how the interview panel is reacting to you, you might miss a major red flag. And believe me—I’ve been there.

I’ll Never Forget

I was interviewing for a teaching position where the panel included the principal, vice principal, and three teachers from the same grade-level team I’d be joining.

At first, it seemed fine. Everyone went around the table (in order), asked questions, and took notes. The principal and VP were warm—nodding along, smiling, and seeming genuinely interested in what I had to say.

But as the interview continued, something felt off.

The three teachers?

  • No smiles

  • No nods

  • No follow-up questions

  • No attempt to connect with me as a person or a potential teammate

It became painfully clear: They did not want me on their team.

I left that interview with a pit in my stomach.

And, although I didn’t get that particular position, the principal reached out afterward to offer me a different teaching role in the building.

You know what I said?

No, thank you.

Because even if I wasn’t going to be working directly with that team, I knew I’d be interacting with them—and I’d already seen enough to know that wasn’t the environment I wanted to be in.

Why Red Flags in a Teacher Interview Matters

When you’re in a teacher interview, it’s easy to get tunnel vision. You’re focused on:

  • Answering clearly

  • Showing off your strengths

  • Making a great impression

  • Connecting with the team

But while you’re trying to prove you’re the right fit for them... You also need to be evaluating if they’re the right fit for YOU.

And one of the biggest clues? How the interview panel engages with you.

Teacher Interview Red Flags to Watch For

If you’re in an interview and notice any of these behaviors, pause and take note:

🚩 1. Flat Energy from the Team

If the teachers or staff you’d be working with seem cold, bored, or disengaged—especially when leadership is warm and welcoming—that’s not just nerves. It could signal a lack of cohesion or unhealthy team dynamics.

🚩 2. No One Tries to Connect with You

An interview isn’t just a checklist. In schools with positive culture, interviewers usually smile, ask thoughtful follow-ups, and show genuine interest in you as a person—not just your answers.

🚩 3. You Feel Uncomfortable Asking Questions

At the end of the interview, you should feel welcomed to ask questions—not like you’re putting them on the spot. If the tone shifts when it’s your turn to speak, that’s a red flag.

🚩 4. Your Gut Is Screaming at You

Sometimes we ignore our gut because we’re so focused on the opportunity. But if you walk out of the interview feeling small, disconnected, or unseen—listen to that.

What to Do If You Spot a Red Flag

A red flag doesn’t automatically mean “don’t take the job.” But it does mean: ask more questions and proceed with caution.

If you're offered the position, you can follow up before signing a contract by:

  • Asking to tour the school and get a sense of the culture and climate

  • Asking to shadow the team or visit classrooms

  • Reaching out to a former or current staff member you trust

  • Checking the school’s social media and parent forums

  • Reflecting on your own non-negotiables and how well the role matches

And most importantly—trust your instincts. Even if they offer you the job, you don’t have to say yes.

Final Thoughts: Read the Room During Your Teacher Interview

That grade-level team showed me exactly who they were during that interview. If I hadn’t been paying attention—and had accepted the position or the alternative role—I could’ve ended up spending the entire school year trying to “fit in” with a team that never really wanted me there in the first place.

So yes, be prepared. Be professional.

But don’t be so focused on impressing them that you ignore signs telling you to walk away. Because now you know what to look for.

When something feels off? You’ll trust your gut.
When red flags pop up? You’ll ask the right questions—or move on.
Because this isn’t just about landing a job—it’s about building a career you actually want to stay in.

You don’t just deserve a teaching job—you deserve the right one for YOU.

Next Steps

If you’re getting ready to apply for your first or next teaching job, you don’t have to navigate it alone. I’m here to help you make informed, confident, and strategic decisions—through every stage of the process. From teacher applications and interviews to setting up classroom systems and routines once you’re hired, I’ll support you in building a sustainable, successful teaching career that prioritizes your well-being and helps you avoid burnout.

✅ Grab my FREE GUIDE: 8 Key Moves to Make NOW Before you Apply for a Teaching Position
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Cheering you on in your teaching journey,

Jaime

Jaime Knott