After submitting a job application, the waiting period can be filled with uncertainty. A well-timed and professional follow-up is a strategic tool. A thoughtful follow-up demonstrates continued interest and professionalism, helping you stand out among other applicants by showing initiative and reinforcing your qualifications for the position.
When to Follow Up
Deciding on the right moment to follow up is a delicate balance. If a job posting does not specify a timeline, a general guideline is to wait one to two weeks after you have submitted your application. This period allows the hiring team sufficient time to review the initial wave of applications without making you appear impatient.
If the job posting includes a closing date for applications, wait approximately three to five business days after that date has passed. This timing is strategic because it ensures the employer has likely completed the initial collection of submissions. Following up at this point positions your name at the forefront as they decide who to contact for interviews.
How to Send Your Follow-Up
Email is the most effective method for following up on a job application. It is a non-intrusive form of communication that allows the recipient to respond at their convenience. An email also provides a written record of your correspondence, which respects the hiring manager’s busy schedule.
Other methods of communication should be used with caution. A phone call may be acceptable if a contact number is provided for inquiries, but it can be seen as overly aggressive. A LinkedIn message might be suitable for roles in fields like sales or recruiting, but for most professions, email is the safest choice.
What to Include in Your Follow-Up Message
The content of your follow-up message is as important as its timing. Use a clear subject line like “Following up on the [Job Title] Application” or “Question regarding the [Job Title] position.” This is professional and immediately informs the recipient of the email’s purpose.
Your message should begin with a professional salutation, addressing the hiring manager by name if possible. The opening sentence should state why you are writing, mentioning the specific position you applied for and the date you submitted your application. This helps the reader recall your candidacy.
In the body of the email, briefly reiterate your strong interest in the role and the company. To add value, connect a key qualification from your resume to a requirement in the job description. For instance, “I was particularly excited to see the emphasis on [specific skill], as I recently completed a project where I [briefly describe relevant achievement].”
Conclude with a polite call to action, such as, “I look forward to the possibility of discussing my qualifications further.” Include a professional signature with your full name and contact information. Before sending, proofread your message carefully to eliminate any typos or grammatical errors.
Who to Contact
The ideal recipient of your message is the hiring manager for the department with the job opening. This individual is most invested in finding the right candidate and is likely the decision-maker. Taking the time to find this person’s name shows initiative.
You can often identify the hiring manager by searching the company’s LinkedIn page or its website. Addressing the hiring manager by name makes your message more personal and likely to be read.
If you are unable to find the hiring manager’s contact information, the next best option is the recruiter who posted the job or the company’s general HR department email. It is best to start with the most specific contact you can find and only use a general address as a last resort.
Navigating Different Scenarios
If a job posting explicitly states “no calls” or “no follow-ups,” it is important to respect these instructions. Disregarding such a request can lead to your application being disqualified, as it shows an inability to follow directions.
If you do not receive a response after your initial follow-up, you might consider sending one final message after waiting another one to two weeks. This second follow-up should be very brief, serving as a final check-in. This should be considered the absolute limit to avoid appearing overly persistent.
If you are informed that the position has been filled, a professional response can leave a lasting positive impression. Thank the contact for their time and express your continued interest in future opportunities at the company. This polite gesture can keep you in mind for other roles.
Common Follow-Up Mistakes to Avoid
To ensure your follow-up efforts are productive, be aware of common pitfalls. Following up too soon or too frequently can be perceived as impatient, so adhere to the recommended timelines.
The tone of your message should always be professional and courteous, avoiding any language that could be interpreted as demanding or overly informal. A generic message that does not reference the specific job you applied for is also a missed opportunity. Tailor your follow-up to show genuine interest.
Additionally, your follow-up should not inquire about salary or benefits; these topics are for later stages of the hiring process. Instead of simply asking for an update, aim to add value by briefly highlighting your qualifications.