Waiting for a response after submitting a job application can be filled with uncertainty. This guide helps you professionally inquire about your application status. Following up demonstrates your continued interest and proactive nature when handled with the right approach and timing.
Determine the Right Time to Follow Up
Deciding when to check on your application is the first step. A general rule is to wait one to two weeks after the application deadline before reaching out. This period gives the hiring team sufficient time to review submissions and begin their evaluation process. Rushing to follow up can be perceived as impatient.
If the job posting included a specific closing date, use that as your starting point. Mark your calendar for one week after that date to send a brief inquiry. This timing shows you are attentive to the details they provided while respecting their stated process.
In cases where no application deadline is listed, the timeline can feel more ambiguous. For these open-ended postings, waiting approximately two weeks after you submitted your application is a safe interval. Before taking any action, always reread the job description for any specific instructions, as some companies explicitly state “no phone calls” or provide a different follow-up protocol.
Choose the Best Method of Inquiry
Before reaching out, your first action should be to check the online application portal, if one was used. Companies often update the status of applications directly on these platforms, and you may find your answer there without needing to contact anyone. This is the least intrusive method and should always be your initial step.
When direct contact is necessary, email is widely considered the most professional and appropriate channel. An email allows the hiring manager or recruiter to respond at their convenience. It also provides you with a written record of your communication. This method ensures your message is received without interrupting their workflow.
Using the phone to follow up is a higher-risk option that requires careful consideration. A phone call can be more direct, but it also has the potential to be seen as intrusive. If you do choose to call, be prepared with a concise script and be ready to leave a professional voicemail. A well-crafted email is almost always the safer and more recommended approach.
Craft Your Follow-Up Message
The structure and tone of your follow-up message are important for making a positive impression. Your email should be concise, professional, and polite, reinforcing your interest without seeming demanding. A clear and direct subject line helps the recipient immediately understand the email’s purpose. Something like “Following Up on [Job Title] Application” is effective.
Begin your message with a polite salutation, using the hiring manager’s name if you know it. If not, a general greeting like “Dear Hiring Manager” is acceptable. In the first sentence, state the reason for your email directly. Next, remind them of when you applied to provide context and briefly reiterate your enthusiasm for the role and the company. Conclude by politely inquiring about the status of your application and the expected timeline for the hiring process.
Here is a template you can adapt:
Subject: Following Up on [Job Title] Application
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I am writing to follow up on my application for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name], which I submitted on [Date of Application].
I remain very interested in this opportunity and am confident that my experience in [mention a relevant skill or experience] would be a strong asset to your team. I am particularly drawn to [Company Name]’s work in [mention a specific project or company value].
Could you please provide a brief update on the status of my application and the general timeline for the hiring process? I am available to provide any additional information you might need.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
What to Do After You Follow Up
After sending your inquiry, it is important to manage your expectations. A lack of an immediate response is common and does not necessarily indicate a negative outcome. Hiring managers are often handling numerous applications and responsibilities, so your message may not be their top priority.
Resist the temptation to send multiple follow-up messages. A single, professional inquiry is sufficient to show your continued interest. Bombarding the hiring manager with repeated emails or calls can be perceived as overly aggressive and may harm your chances. After you have sent your one follow-up, the best course of action is to shift your focus back to your broader job search.
Continue to apply for other positions and explore new opportunities. The job search process is often a numbers game, and keeping your momentum going is beneficial for your morale and your career prospects. By sending one polite follow-up and then moving forward, you demonstrate professionalism and resilience, two valuable traits in any candidate.