To effectively follow up on a job application, first wait for at least one week after submitting your application before reaching out. Then, find the appropriate contact person, either the hiring manager or the HR representative. Send a professional, polite email or make a phone call mentioning your interest in the position, discussing how your skills align with the role, and inquiring about the status of your application. Be sure to reiterate your enthusiasm for the job and express gratitude for their time and consideration. Remember to check your tone, be respectful, and avoid asking too frequently or appearing desperate, as this can negatively impact your chances of being offered the position.
Wait for an Appropriate Time
After submitting your job application, it’s essential to wait for at least one week before following up. This gives the employer enough time to review applications and make initial decisions.
Find the Right Contact Person
Identify the hiring manager or HR representative to get in touch with. Check the job posting instructions, company website, or use professional networking platforms like LinkedIn to find the correct person to contact.
Choose Your Communication Method
Select the most suitable method of communication, be it via email or a phone call. An email is less intrusive and allows the recipient to respond at their convenience, whereas a phone call requires more immediate attention.
Prepare Your Follow-up Message
Subject Line
A clear and concise subject line, such as “Following up on [Job Title] Application,” can help the recipient understand the purpose of your message.
Content
In the body of the message, mention your interest in the position, discuss how your skills align with the role, and inquire about the status of your application. Be sure to reiterate your enthusiasm for the job and thank them for their time and consideration.
Check Your Tone
Maintain a professional and polite tone throughout your correspondence. Avoid sounding overly persistent, aggressive, or desperate, as this can negatively impact your chances of landing the job.
Keep Track of Your Applications
Document when you applied, when you followed up, and with whom you communicated. This will help you manage multiple applications, preventing you from unintentionally following up too frequently or with the wrong person.
Be Prepared for a Response
Ensure you’re prepared to discuss your application in more detail if the employer responds to your follow-up. Reflect on your skills and experiences relevant to the position, and get ready to answer any potential questions.
Plan Your Follow-Up Schedule
Establish a follow-up schedule after submitting your application to avoid appearing overly eager or annoying. Generally, it is recommended to follow up once every 1-2 weeks, with a maximum of 2-3 follow-ups unless otherwise directed by the employer.
Stay Engaged and Informed
Stay connected with the company and the industry while waiting for a response. Follow the organization on social media platforms, read their published materials, and attend industry events to showcase your enthusiasm and commitment to the specific professional sector.
Respect the Employer’s Preferences
Pay attention to any indications from the employer regarding communication preferences. Some employers may prefer email communications, while others may appreciate phone calls. Follow their preferred method to increase your chances of a favorable response.
Prepare for Rejection
Be prepared for the possibility of rejection. If you receive a rejection, graciously accept the decision and thank the employer for their time and consideration. This leaves a positive impression and may lead to future opportunities.
Consider Alternative Opportunities
While following up on job applications, continue exploring other job opportunities and expand your search. This strategy increases your chance of success and ensures you have multiple options to consider.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some of the most common questions and answers related to following up on job applications that may help clarify the process and provide further guidance.
How long should I wait before following up on my job application?
It is recommended to wait at least one week after submitting your job application before reaching out. This timeframe respects the employer’s time and allows them to review applications and make initial decisions.
How do I find the appropriate person to follow up with about my application?
Start by checking the job posting instructions or the company website for the relevant point of contact. If that information is not available, consider using professional networking platforms like LinkedIn to find the hiring manager or HR representative responsible for the position.
Should I follow up by email or phone call?
Both email and phone calls can be effective. Choose based on the company’s preferences and your comfort level. Email is generally less intrusive and allows the recipient to respond at their convenience, while phone calls can convey a more personal touch.
How often should I follow up on a job application?
It’s advisable to follow up once every 1-2 weeks, with a maximum of 2-3 follow-ups in total. This prevents overwhelming the employer and helps avoid coming across as overly persistent.
What if I don’t receive a response or need to follow up multiple times?
If you do not receive a response after a few follow-ups, consider moving on to other job opportunities. Remember that employers may receive many applications and might not be able to get back to every candidate. Don’t get discouraged, and focus on exploring new job prospects.
