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Rank: Newbie
Groups: Member
Joined: 10/28/2008
Posts: 4
Points: 12
Location: Chicago
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Is it a good idea or a bad idea to follow up with a call/email/written note a few weeks after you have sent a resume? Especially if you had to mail it via snail mail? I've gotten some mixed opinions on the matter, but they are from people working outside the Library field. If it is a good idea, what method of following up would be best? I don't want to annoy anyone that might hire me!
I'm mostly applying at small to medium public libraries in the midwest, if that makes a difference. Although I have several years of experience in another field, this will (eventually) be my first professional librarian position.
Also, is there a way to inquire what kind of a timeline a library is using? Most of the job ads have only stated "open until filled." Now that my apartment building is being foreclosed on - knowing if I at least have a shot at being hired in under four months (the time I have to move) could make a big difference in my planning. The thought of moving twice in that time frame hurts just a little.
Thanks!
MeganG
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Rank: Advanced Member
Groups: Jumpstart - Moderator
, Member
Joined: 11/18/2007
Posts: 73
Points: -69
Location: Wisconsin
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When I was applying for public library jobs, I did this three times (followed up.) It worked in two libraries (smaller ones), and it didn't work in the larger-sized library. From my own experience, and from what I can gather from people, once you start hitting the 6,000-7,000 population mark some library directors can become annoyed that you've contacted them about the open position.
However, given your current living situation, you might wanna chuck that out the window and follow-up with some of these open positions regardless. Be careful about following up on a position that has just closed for applications, though. Give the employer some time. I think two weeks is a good time frame, but this is just my opinion.
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Rank: Advanced Member
Groups: Member
Joined: 1/3/2008
Posts: 30
Points: 102
Location: Maryland
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Do call! Did the library directly announce the position vacancy or through a central municipal HR office?
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Rank: Advanced Member
Groups: Member
Joined: 3/3/2008
Posts: 94
Points: 291
Location: kansas
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As the director of a medium-small library, I strongly suggest you call to check on it. All you need to do is ask if it arrived, and depending on the response, you can decide to ask about the time line. I would be very glad to know that someone is interested enough in a job to make sure the materials arrived. And I would be more than happy to share the time line, vague as it might be early in the process.
On the other hand, I would be really irritated if they persisted in demanding to know the time line if I did not offer it. When I e-mail resumes out, I also put in a note that asks to be notified if the materials can not be opened so that I can re-send---I usually get a reply either way.
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Rank: Newbie
Groups: Member
Joined: 10/28/2008
Posts: 4
Points: 12
Location: Chicago
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Thanks everyone for your responses. I will start my follow up calls on Monday.
To answer your question Henrietta, these libraries announced their vacancies directly and I do have contact names for each of the libraries.
Thanks again.
Megan
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Rank: Newbie
Groups: Member
Joined: 5/10/2009
Posts: 1
Points: 3
Location: india
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After submitting a resume, the candidate should follow-up with a phone call or email; it shows enthusiasm and interest, and could differentiate the candidate.
Examples of Resume
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