The time after submitting a job application can be filled with uncertainty. This period of waiting is a common experience for job seekers. This guide is designed to provide a clear path for navigating the post-application phase, offering insight into what happens behind the scenes and what steps you can take.
Understanding the Typical Hiring Timeline
After you apply, the wait time for a response can range from a couple of weeks to a month or more. A survey by Glassdoor suggests it takes 10-14 days to get a response after submitting your application. Your application often first encounters an Applicant Tracking System (ATS), which is software that scans resumes for specific keywords and qualifications relevant to the job description.
If your application passes the automated ATS screening, it then moves to a human resources professional for an initial review. This person assesses whether your experience aligns with the role’s fundamental requirements. Only after this check does your application typically reach the desk of the hiring manager, who is responsible for the final decision on who to interview.
The size of the company plays a significant role; large corporations may have more bureaucratic layers and a higher volume of applications, leading to a longer process that could take up to a month. Smaller companies, with more streamlined procedures, might respond within a week. The urgency to fill the position also affects the speed; a role may be fast-tracked, while a less urgent one could be subject to shifting internal priorities or even pauses in the hiring process due to holidays or budget reviews.
What to Do While You Wait
The most productive action you can take during the waiting period is to continue your job search. It is a common mistake to pause all other applications in anticipation of hearing back from one specific opportunity. Continuing to apply for other positions maintains momentum and ensures you do not lose valuable time. This approach keeps your options open and reduces the pressure associated with any single application.
This time can also be used to organize your job search efforts. Creating a simple spreadsheet to track the jobs you have applied for, the dates you applied, and any deadlines can be very helpful. This tool allows you to manage your follow-ups and keep a clear record. It also helps you prepare for potential interviews by having all the relevant information in one accessible location.
Beyond applying for other roles, you can use this period for professional development. Enhancing existing skills or learning new ones can make you a more attractive candidate for future opportunities. Whether it is through online courses, workshops, or industry certifications, investing in your professional growth is always a valuable use of your time.
Following Up on Your Application
A general guideline is to wait one to two weeks after the application deadline has passed before making contact. If no deadline was provided in the job posting, a good rule of thumb is to wait about two weeks from the day you submitted your application. This timing shows your continued interest without appearing impatient, respecting that the company has a review process to complete.
When you do decide to reach out, email is the most professional and effective method. It is non-intrusive and provides a written record of your communication. Your follow-up email should be concise and professional, with a clear subject line that includes the title of the position you applied for.
The body of the email should be brief and to the point. Start by politely reminding them of your application and the specific role. Reaffirm your strong interest in the position and the company, perhaps mentioning one qualification that makes you a good fit.
When to Move On
Job seekers must recognize that a lack of response from a company is, in itself, a form of communication. Unfortunately, it is a common practice for many organizations not to send rejection notifications to every applicant due to the high volume of submissions they receive. Accepting this reality can help manage expectations and prevent you from investing emotional energy into an opportunity that is unlikely to materialize.
If you have sent a follow-up email and another week passes with no reply, it is a reliable signal to shift your focus. If more than a month has gone by since your initial application without any communication, it is practical to consider that the company has moved forward with other candidates. While there can be exceptions, holding out hope for an extended period is often unproductive.
Mentally moving on does not mean you would refuse an interview if one were unexpectedly offered later, but it does mean you should stop actively anticipating a response. Your time and energy are finite resources that are best spent pursuing active and promising leads. By redirecting your efforts toward new applications and opportunities, you remain in control of your job search and increase your chances of finding the right role.