The period after submitting a job application can be filled with uncertainty. Taking the initiative to follow up on your application is a proactive step that reaffirms your interest in the position. A well-crafted and strategically timed email can set you apart from other candidates. This guide provides a clear path to professionally inquire about your application status.
When to Send Your Follow-Up Email
Timing your follow-up email is a delicate balance. Acting too quickly can be perceived as impatient, while waiting too long might signal a lack of genuine interest. A general guideline is to wait one to two weeks after the application deadline has passed. This provides the hiring team ample time to process initial submissions.
If the job posting did not include a specific application deadline, a good rule of thumb is to wait approximately two weeks from the day you submitted your application. This period allows for the internal processes of collecting and reviewing applications to take place. An inquiry within this timeframe demonstrates your enthusiasm while respecting the recruiter’s schedule.
Who to Address the Email To
Directing your email to the right person increases the likelihood of receiving a response. The most effective approach is to send your inquiry directly to the hiring manager for the department you applied to. This individual is best positioned to provide a meaningful update on the hiring timeline.
If the hiring manager’s contact information is not readily available, your next best point of contact is the recruiter. A recruiter’s name is often mentioned in the job posting or on a career site. A third option is to use a general human resources email address, which can be found on the company’s website. A general inquiry is a reasonable alternative when specific contacts are unknown.
How to Write the Follow-Up Email
Craft a Clear Subject Line
The subject line of your email is the first thing a recipient sees and it should be clear and professional. It needs to give the reader an immediate understanding of your email’s purpose. Vague subject lines risk being overlooked in a crowded inbox.
Effective subject lines are direct and informative. Good examples include, “Following Up on Project Manager Application” or “Application Status Inquiry: Jane Doe for Marketing Associate.” Including the specific job title and your name helps the hiring manager or recruiter quickly identify your application.
Use a Professional Salutation
Your greeting sets the tone for the entire email, so opt for a professional and respectful salutation. If you know the name of the recipient, use a formal address such as, “Dear Mr. Smith,” or “Dear Ms. Jones.” Using their last name shows a level of formality and respect.
In situations where you cannot identify a specific contact person, you can use a more general but still professional greeting. “Dear Hiring Team,” or “Dear [Company Name] Hiring Manager,” are suitable alternatives. This approach maintains a professional tone.
Write a Concise and Polite Body
The body of your email should be direct. Start by stating the specific position you applied for and the date you submitted your application. This provides immediate context for the recipient.
Next, briefly reiterate your interest in the role and the company. You can mention a specific reason you are excited about the opportunity. The main purpose of the email is to politely ask for an update on the status of your application and the hiring process timeline. Keep the entire message brief.
End with a Professional Closing
Conclude your email with a professional closing to maintain a positive impression. Standard options include “Sincerely,” “Best regards,” or “Thank you for your consideration.” These closings are universally accepted in professional communication.
Following the closing, type your full name. Below your name, include your basic contact information, such as your phone number and email address. This makes it easy for the recipient to contact you if they wish to provide an update.
Follow-Up Email Template
Subject: Following Up on [Job Title] Application
Dear [Mr./Ms./Mx. Last Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to follow up on my application for the [Job Title] position, which I submitted on [Date of Application].
I am very enthusiastic about the opportunity to join [Company Name] and contribute to your team. The work you are doing in [Mention a specific area of interest] is particularly exciting to me, and I believe my experience in [Mention a relevant skill or experience] would be a strong asset.
Could you please provide a brief update on the status of my application and the expected timeline for the hiring process? I am eager to learn more about the next steps.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Best regards,
[Your Full Name]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
What to Do After You Send the Email
After you have sent your follow-up email, the next step is to practice patience. The hiring process can be lengthy and involves multiple stages and decision-makers. If you receive a response, be sure to reply in a timely and professional manner, thanking them for the update.
If a week passes and you do not receive a response, it is generally advisable to move on and concentrate on other job opportunities. A lack of response can itself be an answer. Sending multiple follow-up emails can be perceived as overly aggressive and may harm your professional reputation. It is more productive to focus your energy on pursuing new leads.