Applying for a job can be a nerve-wracking experience. You’ve polished your resume, crafted a cover letter, and submitted your application, but now what? One vital step often overlooked is following up after submitting your job application. Following up is not only a courteous gesture but also a strategic move to keep your candidacy fresh in the recruiter’s mind. In this blog post, we will guide you through the best practices for following up on your job application, providing tips, examples, and answers to frequently asked questions.
In today’s competitive job market, waiting idly after submitting your application is not an option. Many candidates miss out on opportunities simply because they do not follow up. This guide will help you understand when and how to follow up effectively, ensuring that you stand out in the hiring process. We will cover essential tips, provide sample follow-up emails, and answer some common questions to make your job application journey smoother.
How to follow up on a job application by email
Email is frequently regarded as the most effective means of following up on a job application. Recruiters and hiring managers generally favor email communication. This method allows the hiring manager you are contacting to respond at their convenience. Additionally, it serves as a record of your correspondence.
In drafting your follow-up email, create a concise subject line and maintain brevity in your message. Politely address the recipient by name, convey how you would be a suitable candidate for the company, pose any important questions, and conclude by expressing gratitude for their time. Do not forget to attach your resume to encourage the hiring manager to reassess your skills and qualifications.
How to follow up after applying for a job
1. Wait Two Weeks
The first rule of thumb for following up on a job application is to give it some time. Generally, waiting about two weeks after your application submission is appropriate. This timeframe allows the hiring team to review applications and shortlist potential candidates without feeling rushed.
Why Two Weeks?
- Respect for the Process: Hiring processes can be lengthy, and employers often have many applications to review. Waiting shows respect for their timeline.
- Avoiding Annoyance: Following up too soon can come off as impatient or pushy. Two weeks strikes a balance between eagerness and professionalism.
2. Be Brief and Clear
When you decide to follow up, keep your communication concise. A brief message that directly states your purpose is more likely to be read and appreciated by the recipient.
Tips for Brevity and Clarity
- Subject Line: Use a clear subject line like “Follow-Up on Job Application for [Position Title].”
- Opening Statement: Get straight to the point. For instance, “I hope this message finds you well. I am writing to inquire about the status of my application for the [Position Title] role submitted on [Date].”
- Length: Aim for 3-4 short paragraphs that summarize your interest and qualifications.
3. Confirm Your Interest
Following up allows you to reaffirm your enthusiasm for the position. Employers want to know you’re genuinely interested, so take this opportunity to express that.
How to Confirm Your Interest
- Mention the Position: Clearly state the job title you applied for and remind them of your interest in the role.
- Personal Touch: If you had a positive interaction with someone at the company or learned something specific about the organization that excites you, reference that in your follow-up.
4. Reiterate Your Top Qualifications
This is your chance to remind the hiring manager of what makes you the best fit for the role. Briefly summarize your qualifications and experience that align with the job description.
How to Highlight Your Qualifications
- Tailored Summary: Reference specific experiences or skills that are relevant to the job. For example, “With over five years of experience in [Field/Skill], I am confident in my ability to contribute to [Company Name].”
- Quantifiable Achievements: If applicable, use numbers to demonstrate your impact. For instance, “In my last role, I increased sales by 20% within six months.”
5. Express Your Gratitude
Gratitude goes a long way in making a positive impression. Thank the hiring manager for considering your application and for their time.
How to Show Gratitude
- Express Appreciation: A simple line like, “Thank you for considering my application,” can create a lasting impression.
- Polite Closing: Conclude with a polite closing remark, such as “I appreciate your time and look forward to hearing from you.”
How to follow up on a job application by email
Example 1: Initial Follow-Up Email
Subject: Follow-Up on Job Application Dear [Name], I hope this message finds you well. I am writing to inquire about the status of my application for the Marketing Manager position submitted on [Date]. I am very enthusiastic about the opportunity to join [Company Name] and contribute to your team. With over five years of experience in digital marketing and a proven track record of successfully executing campaigns that have increased engagement by over 30%, I am excited about the possibility of bringing my skills to your company. Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of discussing this exciting opportunity with you. Best regards, [Your Name] |
Example 2: Follow-Up After No Response
Subject: Follow-Up on Job Application Dear [Name], I hope you’re doing well. I wanted to follow up on my application for the Marketing Manager position submitted on [Date]. I remain very interested in the opportunity and would love to know if there have been any updates regarding the hiring process. I believe my background in managing successful marketing campaigns, particularly my recent project that increased brand awareness by 40%, would be a great match for your needs. Thank you once again for your time. I look forward to your response. Warm regards, [Your Name] |
How to follow up on a job application by phone
An alternative approach is to follow up via telephone. Telephone calls are generally less favored than emails, as unforeseen calls may surprise a hiring manager. They might not have your application immediately accessible, may forget important aspects of your conversation when referencing your application later, or it could simply be an inopportune moment for them.
Nevertheless, should you opt to make a call, ensure that your discussion points are prepared in advance to facilitate a concise and effective conversation. Express your gratitude to the hiring manager for their time prior to concluding the call. Be cognizant of the company's business hours and ensure that all calls are made before 4:00 p.m. in the company's respective time zone.
How to follow up on a job application in person
If the position for which you are applying is situated locally, you may opt to follow up in person. This approach may not be suitable for a corporate environment, where employees often maintain demanding schedules or may be challenging to locate at short notice. However, in the case of applying for a position at a small, local establishment where the hiring manager is typically on-site and accessible to customers, visiting to introduce yourself and convey your interest may be viewed as a positive gesture.
To proceed with your application follow-up in person, request to meet with the hiring manager. If they are not available at that moment, inquire about their availability and plan to return at that time. Aim to maintain a casual demeanor and exercise understanding regarding their busy schedules.
Job Application Follow-Up Tips
1. Choose the Right Medium: Email is typically the best method for following up, but if the job posting specifies otherwise, follow those instructions.
2. Be Professional: Use formal language and avoid slang or overly casual phrases.
3. Check Your Tone: Ensure your follow-up is polite and non-demanding. You want to be perceived as enthusiastic, not desperate.
4. Follow Up Again if Necessary: If you haven’t received a response after your first follow-up, it’s acceptable to follow up once more after another week or so.
Conclusion
Following up on a job application is an important step in the job search process that many candidates overlook. By waiting an appropriate amount of time, keeping your communication brief and clear, confirming your interest, reiterating your qualifications, and expressing gratitude, you can make a positive impact on your candidacy. Remember to tailor your emails to each specific situation and to stay professional throughout the process.
By implementing these strategies, you will not only show your enthusiasm for the position but also distinguish yourself from other candidates who may not take this extra step. So, get ready to take charge of your job search and follow up like a pro!
Frequently Asked Questions
How many times can you follow up on a job application?
Generally, it is acceptable to follow up twice: once two weeks after your application and another time if you still haven't heard back, approximately one week after your first follow-up. After that, it’s best to move on unless the employer provides a specific timeline for follow-up communication.
What should I do if I get rejected in my follow-up email?
If you receive a rejection, respond graciously by thanking them for the opportunity to apply and asking if they would be willing to provide feedback on your application. This shows professionalism and may help you improve for future applications.
What if I get an interview invitation after my follow-up?
If you receive an interview invitation after your follow-up, great job! Respond promptly, expressing your gratitude and confirming your availability. Prepare for the interview by reviewing the job description and your qualifications.
