The silence after submitting a job application can be frustrating. The waiting period between applying and hearing back from an employer is a common part of the job search, leaving many to wonder about the appropriate next steps. Understanding when and how to follow up can make a significant difference in demonstrating your continued interest professionally.
The General Rule for Following Up
The standard practice is to wait one to two weeks after the application deadline before making a follow-up call. If the job posting does not list a deadline, this window should be calculated from the day you submitted your application. This waiting period respects the employer’s internal hiring timeline and shows your professionalism.
From the employer’s perspective, the process has just begun. Once a position closes, the hiring team may sift through hundreds of applications, often using an applicant tracking system (ATS) for an initial screening. After this step, human resources or a hiring manager begins the manual review, which can take considerable time.
A shortlist of candidates is then created, which can take another one to two weeks. After internal reviews and coordination, the company begins to schedule interviews. The entire process from a job posting closing to the first interviews can range from two to six weeks, so your patience is necessary.
What to Do Before You Call
Before you pick up the phone, a few preparatory steps are in order. The first action is to carefully reread the original job posting. Some companies explicitly state “no calls” or “no follow-ups,” and ignoring this request can immediately disqualify you by showing an inability to follow directions.
Next, identify the right person to contact, as addressing your call to a specific individual is more effective. Look for the name of the hiring manager or a human resources coordinator on the company’s website. If this information isn’t available, a brief call to the company’s main line to ask for the name of the person handling hiring for the role can be helpful.
Finally, prepare a brief script or a set of talking points. Going into the call unprepared can lead to a clumsy conversation that undermines your professionalism. Having your key points written down ensures you convey your message effectively and respectfully.
How to Make the Follow-Up Call
When you make the follow-up call, your approach should be professional, polite, and brief. The objective is to confirm your application was received and reiterate your interest, not to secure an on-the-spot interview. Aim to call mid-week, from Tuesday to Thursday, to increase the chances of your message being received well.
A simple, direct script is most effective. You could start with, “Hello, my name is [Your Name]. I submitted an application for the [Job Title] position on [Date].” You can continue, “I’m calling to confirm that my application was received and to briefly reiterate my strong interest in the role.”
Be prepared for any response, including being directed to voicemail. If you get a voicemail, leave a concise and professional message. State your name, the position you applied for, the date you applied, and your phone number. A message could be: “Hello, this is [Your Name]. I’m following up on my application for the [Job Title] submitted on [Date]. My number is [Your Phone Number]. Thank you.”
Alternatives to Calling
A phone call is not always the best method for following up. In many professional contexts, a follow-up email is a better alternative. Email is less intrusive, allowing the hiring manager to respond at their convenience. It also creates a written record of your communication.
Your follow-up email should be as concise and professional as your phone script. Use a clear subject line, such as “Follow-Up: Application for [Job Title] – [Your Name]”. The body of the email can be straightforward: “Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name], I am writing to follow up on my application for the [Job Title] position, which I submitted on [Date]. I am very enthusiastic about this opportunity.”
Conclude the email by politely inquiring about the status of your application. You could add, “Please let me know if you require any additional information. Thank you for your time and consideration.” This method achieves the same goal as a phone call in a more convenient format.
What to Avoid When Following Up
How you follow up can either help or harm your candidacy, so it is important to avoid common mistakes. The most frequent error is following up too soon or too often. Contacting an employer just days after applying can make you seem impatient, while repeated calls or emails can be perceived as aggressive. Stick to the one-to-two-week rule, and limit your follow-up to one or two polite attempts.
Disregarding a “no calls” instruction in the job posting is a significant error, as it signals to the employer that you do not pay attention to details. Another mistake is sounding demanding or entitled to an update. Your tone, whether on the phone or in an email, should always be polite and respectful.
Finally, avoid being unprepared. Do not call without knowing the exact job title you applied for or the date you submitted your application. Keep any communication brief, professional, and to the point. A well-executed follow-up shows initiative, but a poorly executed one can quickly remove you from consideration.