Applying for a job is only part of the process. Following up on your application is just as important. It helps you stand out from the crowd and shows hiring managers that you’re genuinely interested. A well-timed follow-up can put your name on top of their mind and sometimes make the difference between getting an interview or getting overlooked.
Following up might feel tricky. You don’t want to seem pushy, but you do want to show enthusiasm. This guide breaks down when and how to follow up, how to write a message that works, and what mistakes to avoid.
When and How to Follow Up on a Job Application
Photo by cottonbro studio
Optimal Timing for Follow-Up
Timing is everything when you follow up. Reach out too soon, and you risk nagging the employer before they've started reviewing applications. Wait too long, and your application might get buried under others.
A good rule of thumb is to wait 1 to 2 weeks after submitting your application. This period usually aligns with the time recruiters take to sort through initial applications, set up interviews, and manage their workload.
If the job posting mentions a specific timeline (e.g., "We will review applications after March 15"), hold off until that date passes before reaching out.
Best Communication Methods
Choosing the right way to follow up can make a big difference. Here are the common methods and their advantages:
- Email: The most professional and preferred method. It’s non-intrusive, gives recruiters time to respond, and provides a record of communication.
- LinkedIn message: Useful if you can connect or already follow the hiring manager or recruiter. It adds a personal touch but should remain professional and concise.
- Phone call: Use this sparingly. It works well if you have an established contact or if the recruiter encourages calls. Avoid calling repeatedly; one or two polite calls are enough.
Email tops the list because it respects the recipient’s time and allows them to reply at their convenience.
Professional Etiquette in Follow-Up
Your goal is to remind without irritating. Follow these etiquette pointers:
- Be polite: Use courteous language.
- Keep it brief: Hiring managers are busy. State your purpose clearly and avoid unnecessary details.
- Respect their time: Acknowledge that they are managing many candidates.
- Avoid pressure: Don’t demand updates; instead, express continued interest and ask for any updates when convenient.
- Use proper grammar and spelling: This reflects professionalism.
A respectful tone makes a good impression and keeps doors open.
How to Craft an Effective Follow-Up Message
Personalizing Your Message
A generic "Just checking in" won’t do. Reference the specific job title and company. Mention something you admire about the company or why you’re a good fit. This helps your message feel genuine instead of a copy-paste job.
For example, if the company focuses on innovation, mention how your experience with creative problem-solving aligns with their values.
Key Elements to Include
Make sure your follow-up message contains:
- A brief reminder of the application and the position you applied for.
- A clear statement of your continued interest.
- A highlight of one or two relevant skills or experiences.
- A polite request for a status update or information on the next steps.
- A thank you expressing appreciation for their time and consideration.
Examples of Follow-Up Messages
Email follow-up template:
Subject: Follow-Up on [Job Title] Application
Hi [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I hope you’re doing well. I recently applied for the [Job Title] position and wanted to express my continued interest. With my background in [briefly mention relevant experience], I’m excited about the opportunity to contribute to [Company Name].
If possible, could you please share any updates regarding my application or the next steps? Thank you for your time and consideration.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Phone call approach:
- Introduce yourself and mention the job you applied for.
- Express your enthusiasm for the role.
- Politely ask if there’s an update or any additional information you can provide.
- Keep it brief and thank them before ending the call.
Best Practices and Common Mistakes to Avoid
Dos for Effective Follow-Up
- Limit follow-ups to 2 or 3 attempts maximum.
- Space your follow-ups about a week apart to avoid overwhelming the employer.
- Reply promptly if they respond with questions or updates.
- Keep messages clear and focused on your interest and qualifications.
- Use professional language and remain positive.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Following up too frequently can annoy recruiters.
- Sending generic messages without personalization.
- Using casual slang or informal language.
- Forgetting to proofread and sending messages with errors.
- Ignoring instructions in the job posting not to follow up.
How to Handle No Response
Sometimes, you won’t get a reply, no matter how well you follow up. It’s important to stay professional:
- Don’t bombard the employer with messages. After a couple of attempts, move on.
- Continue applying to other jobs and networking.
- Use this time to improve your resume, skills, or interview techniques.
- Consider reaching out later if the position remains open or new openings appear.
No response isn’t always a rejection; sometimes, it’s just the way the process goes.
Conclusion
Following up on a job application is a smart step that can set you apart from other candidates. By timing your follow-up right, choosing the proper method, and crafting a clear, polite message, you show professionalism and sincere interest. Keep your communication respectful and limited, so you don’t come off as pushy.
Persistence matters, but so does knowing when to pause. Follow these tips, and you’ll boost your chances of getting noticed without wearing down your welcome. Keep going—you never know which follow-up could open the door to your next opportunity.