How to Follow Up On a Job Application

When it comes to job applications, it’s not just about submitting your resume and cover letter. One of the most important steps in the process is the follow-up.

The Importance of Following Up on Your Job Application

Are you one of those job seekers who apply for a job, and then wait for the employer to contact you? Well, you’re not alone. Many job seekers think that submitting their application is enough, and that the employer will reach out to them if they’re interested. However, following up on your job application is crucial if you want to increase your chances of landing the job.

Table of Contents

• The Importance of Following Up on Your Job Application
• Why follow up on your job application?
• When to Follow Up on a Job Application
• Factors That Might Affect When to Follow Up
• How to Follow Up on a Job Application
• Tips for Reaching Out to the Hiring Manager
• Phone Call vs. Email – Which One Should You Use to Follow Up on a Job Application?
• Using a Professional Tone in Your Job Application Communication
• Mentioning Your Application and Interest in the Position in Your Communication With Employers
• What to Say When Following Up on a Job Application
• What to Do If You Don’t Hear Back After Following Up on a Job Application
• Second Follow-Up or Move On – What to Do When Following Up on a Job Application
• Key Takeaways for Following Up on a Job Application
• 20 FAQs About Following Up on a Job Application
• Final Thoughts on Following Up on a Job Application

Why follow up on your job application?

Firstly, following up on your job application shows that you are genuinely interested in the position. It also shows that you are proactive, which is a desirable quality in any employee. By following up, you’re demonstrating that you’re willing to go the extra mile to get the job.

Secondly, following up on your job application can also help you stand out from other applicants. In a sea of applicants, it’s easy for your application to get lost. However, by following up, you’re reminding the employer of your application and showing them that you’re passionate about the position.

Thirdly, following up on your job application gives you the opportunity to ask questions about the position or company. This is your chance to show your enthusiasm and interest in the company and to learn more about what the job entails.

When to Follow Up on a Job Application

Searching for a new job can be a daunting task, and submitting job applications is just the first step in the process. One of the most critical steps in securing a job is following up on your application. However, knowing when and how to follow up can be tricky. You don’t want to come across as too pushy, but you also don’t want to miss an opportunity.

In this section, we’ll cover everything you need to know about when to follow up on a job application. Whether you’re applying to a large corporation or a small startup, we’ve got you covered.

First and foremost, it’s essential to understand that most companies receive a large number of applications, so they may not be able to respond to every applicant. However, this doesn’t mean that you should sit back and wait for a response. Instead, take the initiative to follow up.

A general rule of thumb is to wait about one week after submitting your application before following up. This gives the company enough time to review your application and make any necessary decisions. If the job posting includes a deadline, wait until after the deadline has passed before following up.

When following up, it’s essential to do so in a professional and courteous manner. This means avoiding any confrontational or pushy language. Instead, try something like, “Hello, I’m just following up on my application for [position name]. I wanted to check if there have been any updates or if you require any further information from me.”

Email is generally the preferred method of follow-up communication, as it allows the recipient to respond at their convenience. If you don’t receive a response to your email, you can follow up with a phone call. When making a phone call, be sure to introduce yourself and explain that you’re following up on your application. Keep the call brief and to the point.

It’s important to remember that not all companies follow the same hiring process. Some companies may respond quickly, while others may take several weeks or even months. However, if you haven’t heard back after following up a few times, it’s safe to assume that the company has moved on to other candidates.

Following up on a job application is an essential step in the job search process. Wait about one week before following up, be professional and courteous, and use email as the primary method of communication. Remember that not all companies follow the same hiring process, so be patient and persistent in your job search. With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to securing your dream job.

Factors That Might Affect When to Follow Up

When applying for a job, following up on your application is an essential step in the process. However, knowing when to follow up can be tricky, as there are several factors that may affect the timeline. In this section, we’ll discuss some of the factors that might affect when to follow up on a job application.

Job Posting Details

The job posting itself can provide clues as to when to follow up. Some job postings include a deadline for applications, in which case it’s best to follow up after the deadline has passed. Other job postings may specify a start date for the position, in which case it’s best to follow up before that start date to ensure that the hiring process is still ongoing.

Company Size

The size of the company can also affect when to follow up. Larger companies may receive a higher volume of applications and may take longer to review them. In this case, it’s best to wait a bit longer before following up. Smaller companies, on the other hand, may have a more streamlined hiring process and may respond more quickly.

Industry and Position

The industry and position you’re applying for can also affect when to follow up. Some industries, such as healthcare or government, may have longer hiring processes that require more thorough background checks or security clearances. Positions that require a high level of experience or education may also take longer to fill.

Communication with the Company

If you’ve already had communication with the company, such as through a phone interview or an email exchange, this can affect when to follow up. If the company provided a timeline for when they would get back to you, it’s best to wait until that timeline has passed before following up. If you haven’t heard back from the company after that timeline has passed, it’s appropriate to follow up.

Hiring Manager’s Communication Preferences

Finally, the hiring manager’s communication preferences can also affect when to follow up. Some hiring managers prefer email communication, while others may prefer phone calls. If you’ve had previous communication with the hiring manager, it’s best to follow their preferred communication method.

Several factors can affect when to follow up on a job application. The job posting details, company size, industry and position, communication with the company, and hiring manager’s communication preferences are all important factors to consider. Remember to be professional and courteous in all communication with the company.

How to Follow Up on a Job Application

Following up on a job application can be nerve-wracking, but it’s an essential part of the job search process. A well-timed and professional follow-up can help you stand out from other applicants and show the employer that you are truly interested in the position. In this section, we’ll go over some tips on how to follow up on a job application.

Review the job posting – Before following up, make sure you’ve reviewed the job posting and any communication you’ve received from the employer. Look for any information on when they plan to make a decision or if there are any specific instructions on how to follow up.

Send an email – Email is generally the preferred method of follow-up communication. Send a polite and professional email to the hiring manager or recruiter who is handling the position. Introduce yourself, remind them of the position you applied for, and ask if there have been any updates on your application. Keep your email concise and to the point.

Follow up in a timely manner – It’s important to follow up in a timely manner, but also to give the employer enough time to review your application. Wait at least a week after submitting your application before following up. If the job posting specifies a deadline, wait until after the deadline has passed before following up.

Use a friendly tone – When following up, be friendly and personable. Avoid coming across as too pushy or aggressive. Use a tone that shows your interest in the position and your enthusiasm for the opportunity.

Be patient – Remember that the hiring process can take time, and the employer may have a large number of applicants to review. Be patient and avoid following up too frequently. If you don’t receive a response to your email, wait another week or two before following up again.

Follow up with a phone call – If you don’t receive a response to your email, it’s acceptable to follow up with a phone call. When making the call, introduce yourself, remind the employer of the position you applied for, and ask if there have been any updates on your application. Keep the call brief and to the point.

Following up on a job application can help you stand out from other applicants and show the employer that you are truly interested in the position. Use a polite and professional tone in your email or phone call, be patient, and follow up in a timely manner. With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to securing your dream job.

Tips for Reaching Out to the Hiring Manager

Reaching out to the hiring manager can be a nerve-wracking experience, but it’s an important part of the job search process. If done correctly, reaching out to the hiring manager can help you stand out from other applicants and increase your chances of getting the job. In this section, we’ll go over some tips for reaching out to the hiring manager.

Use the correct name and title – When reaching out to the hiring manager, make sure you’re using their correct name and title. This shows that you’ve done your research and are taking the process seriously. You can usually find this information on the company’s website or LinkedIn.

Be professional – When reaching out to the hiring manager, it’s important to be professional and courteous. Avoid using slang or informal language, and make sure your email or phone call is well-written and free of errors.

Use a friendly tone – While it’s important to be professional, you also want to come across as friendly and approachable. Use a friendly tone in your email or phone call, and show your enthusiasm for the position.

Do your research – Before reaching out to the hiring manager, do your research on the company and the position. This shows that you’re truly interested in the job and have taken the time to learn about the company’s values and culture.

Keep it brief – When reaching out to the hiring manager, keep your email or phone call brief and to the point. Introduce yourself, express your interest in the position, and ask if there are any updates on your application. Avoid rambling or going off-topic.

Follow up in a timely manner – If you don’t receive a response to your initial email or phone call, it’s acceptable to follow up after a week or two. However, avoid following up too frequently or coming across as too pushy.

Use LinkedIn – LinkedIn can be a great tool for reaching out to the hiring manager. Look for the hiring manager’s profile on LinkedIn and send them a polite and professional message expressing your interest in the position.

Reaching out to the hiring manager can be a great way to stand out from other applicants and increase your chances of getting the job. Use a friendly and professional tone, do your research, and keep your email or phone call brief and to the point. With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to landing your dream job.

Phone Call vs. Email – Which One Should You Use to Follow Up on a Job Application?

When it comes to following up on a job application, there are two main methods of communication: phone call and email. Both methods have their advantages and disadvantages, and it can be difficult to know which one to use. In this section, we’ll go over the pros and cons of each method to help you decide which one to use.

Phone Call:

Pros:

• Personal touch: A phone call can add a personal touch and help you stand out from other applicants.
• Immediate response: With a phone call, you can get an immediate response and have a conversation with the hiring manager.
• Clarification: You can clarify any questions or concerns the hiring manager may have about your application.

Cons:

• Can be intrusive: A phone call can be seen as intrusive, especially if the hiring manager is busy.
• Hard to reach: It can be difficult to reach the hiring manager by phone, especially if they don’t answer or don’t have voicemail set up.
• Nervousness: Some people may get nervous on the phone, which can lead to awkward or unprofessional communication.

Email:

Pros:

• Professional: Email is a professional and widely accepted method of communication.
• Can be sent anytime: Emails can be sent at any time, and the hiring manager can respond at their convenience.
• Can be edited: Emails can be edited and proofread before sending to ensure they are clear and professional.

Cons:

• Can be impersonal: Emails can lack the personal touch of a phone call.
• Can be ignored: Emails can be ignored or sent to spam, which means you may not receive a response.
• Can be misinterpreted: Without tone of voice and body language, emails can be misinterpreted, leading to misunderstandings.

Both phone calls and emails have their advantages and disadvantages when it comes to following up on a job application. If you want a personal touch and immediate response, a phone call may be the better option.

If you prefer a more professional and convenient method of communication, an email may be the better option. Ultimately, it’s important to choose the method that you feel most comfortable with and that best represents you as a professional.

Using a Professional Tone in Your Job Application Communication

When applying for a job, it’s important to use a professional tone in all communication with potential employers. This includes your cover letter, resume, and any follow-up emails or phone calls. Using a professional tone demonstrates your respect for the employer and shows that you take the job search process seriously. In this section, we’ll go over some tips on how to use a professional tone in your job application communication.

Use proper grammar and spelling – It’s important to use proper grammar and spelling in all communication with potential employers. Double-check your emails and documents for errors before sending them.

Address the employer formally – Use a formal greeting such as “Dear Hiring Manager” or “Dear Mr./Ms. Last Name” to show respect for the employer.

Keep it concise and to the point – Employers are often busy and may not have time to read long emails or cover letters. Keep your communication concise and to the point, focusing on the most important information.

Avoid slang and jargon – Avoid using slang or industry-specific jargon that the employer may not be familiar with.

Use a positive and enthusiastic tone – Use a positive and enthusiastic tone in your communication to show your excitement for the position and your willingness to contribute to the company.

Use professional language – Use professional language in your communication, avoiding any offensive or inappropriate language.

Proofread before sending – Always proofread your communication before sending to ensure that it is clear, concise, and professional.

Using a professional tone in your job application communication is essential to demonstrating your respect for the employer and your commitment to the job search process.

By using proper grammar and spelling, addressing the employer formally, keeping your communication concise, and using a positive and enthusiastic tone, you can make a strong impression on potential employers and increase your chances of landing your dream job.

Mentioning Your Application and Interest in the Position in Your Communication With Employers

When communicating with potential employers, it’s important to mention your application and express your interest in the position. This shows that you’re serious about the job and that you’ve taken the time to learn about the company and the position. In this section, we’ll go over some tips on how to mention your application and express your interest in the position in your communication with employers.

Use a formal greeting – Start your communication with a formal greeting, such as “Dear Hiring Manager” or “Dear Mr./Ms. Last Name.”

Mention the position you’re applying for – In the first paragraph, mention the position you’re applying for and the date you submitted your application. This will help the employer to identify your application and connect it to your communication.

Express your interest in the position – In the second paragraph, express your interest in the position and the company. Mention what specifically appeals to you about the position and how you think you can contribute to the company.

Provide supporting evidence – In the third paragraph, provide supporting evidence for your interest in the position. This could include any relevant experience or skills you have, or any research you’ve done on the company or the industry.

Thank the employer for their time – In the final paragraph, thank the employer for their time and consideration. Express your willingness to answer any further questions they may have.

Keep it concise and professional – Keep your communication concise and professional, focusing on the most important information. Avoid going off-topic or including irrelevant details.

Mentioning your application and expressing your interest in the position is essential to making a strong impression on potential employers. By using a formal greeting, mentioning the position you’re applying for, expressing your interest in the position, providing supporting evidence, and thanking the employer for their time, you can increase your chances of landing your dream job.

Remember to keep your communication concise and professional, and to tailor your message to the specific employer and position.

What to Say When Following Up on a Job Application

Following up on a job application is an important step in the job search process. It shows the employer that you’re interested in the position and can help you stand out from other applicants. In this section, we’ll go over what to say when following up on a job application, including a brief introduction, inquiry about the application status, mention of continued interest, and a thank you.

Brief introduction – Start your email or phone call with a brief introduction, reminding the employer of your name and the position you applied for. This will help the employer connect your follow-up with your original application.

Inquiry about the application status – After the introduction, ask about the status of your application. You can say something like, “I wanted to follow up on my application for the position of [job title]. I was wondering if there’s been any update on the status of my application?”

Mention of continued interest – After inquiring about the status of your application, express your continued interest in the position. You can say something like, “I remain very interested in the position and would appreciate any information you can provide about the status of my application.”

Thank you – End your email or phone call with a thank you. You can say something like, “Thank you for taking the time to review my application. I appreciate your consideration and look forward to hearing from you soon.”

When following up on a job application, it’s important to include a brief introduction, an inquiry about the application status, a mention of continued interest, and a thank you.

By using a polite and professional tone, you can make a strong impression on potential employers and increase your chances of landing your dream job.

What to Do If You Don’t Hear Back After Following Up on a Job Application

If you’ve followed up on a job application and still haven’t heard back from the employer, it can be frustrating and discouraging. However, there are some steps you can take to increase your chances of getting a response. In this section, we’ll go over the follow-up timeline and next steps to take if you don’t hear back after following up on a job application.

A. Follow-up timeline:

Wait at least a week after your initial follow-up before following up again. This gives the employer enough time to review your application and respond.

If you still don’t hear back after a week, follow up one more time. Keep your email or phone call brief and polite, and express your continued interest in the position.

If you still don’t hear back after your second follow-up, it’s probably safe to assume that you’re not being considered for the position. You can move on to other job opportunities and focus your efforts elsewhere.

B. Next steps:

Keep applying for other jobs – Don’t put all your eggs in one basket. Continue to apply for other jobs and focus on other opportunities.

Ask for feedback – If you have a good rapport with the employer, you can ask for feedback on your application or interview. This can help you improve for future job opportunities.

Network – Reach out to your network and let them know you’re looking for a job. They may be able to connect you with other opportunities or offer advice and support.

Learn from the experience – Reflect on your job search process and think about what you can do differently in the future. This can help you improve your job search skills and increase your chances of landing your dream job.

If you don’t hear back after following up on a job application, it’s important to follow a timeline and take the next steps to increase your chances of getting a response. By continuing to apply for other jobs, asking for feedback, networking, and learning from the experience, you can improve your job search skills and increase your chances of landing your dream job.

Second Follow-Up or Move On – What to Do When Following Up on a Job Application

When following up on a job application, it’s important to know when to continue following up and when to move on to other opportunities. In some cases, a second follow-up may be appropriate, while in other cases it may be time to move on. In this section, we’ll go over when to do a second follow-up and when to move on.

Second Follow-Up:

If you’ve followed up once and haven’t heard back, it’s appropriate to follow up one more time after a week or two. In your second follow-up, be brief and polite, and express your continued interest in the position. You can say something like, “I just wanted to follow up one more time about my application for the position of [job title]. I remain very interested in the position and would appreciate any information you can provide about the status of my application.”

After your second follow-up, it’s usually best to move on to other opportunities. Continuing to follow up may come across as pushy or desperate, which can harm your chances of landing the job or future opportunities with the company.

Move On:

If you’ve followed up twice and still haven’t heard back, it’s time to move on to other opportunities. Don’t put all your eggs in one basket – continue applying for other jobs and networking with other professionals in your field. Remember that rejection is a normal part of the job search process, and it’s important to stay positive and motivated.

In conclusion, following up on a job application is important, but it’s also important to know when to do a second follow-up and when to move on. If you haven’t heard back after two follow-ups, it’s best to move on to other opportunities and focus your efforts elsewhere. Remember to stay positive and motivated, and to continue learning and growing as a professional.

Key Takeaways for Following Up on a Job Application

Following up on a job application can be a nerve-wracking process, but it’s an important step in the job search process. Here are some key takeaways to keep in mind when following up on a job application:

• Use a professional tone in all communication with potential employers, including emails and phone calls.

• Mention your application and express your interest in the position to show the employer that you’re serious about the job.

• Follow a timeline when following up, waiting at least a week between each follow-up and keeping your communication brief and polite.

• Know when to do a second follow-up and when to move on to other opportunities.

• Keep applying for other jobs and networking with other professionals in your field, even if you’re following up on a job application.

• Learn from your experiences and reflect on what you can do differently in the future to improve your job search skills.

By following these key takeaways, you can increase your chances of landing your dream job and making a strong impression on potential employers. Remember to stay positive and motivated, and to keep learning and growing as a professional.

More Articles & Guides
Learn How to Get a Better Paying Job	Link
How to Write a Winning Resume	Link
How to Find a Job You Love	Link
How to Make a Career Change	Link
More About Careers & Jobs	Link

20 FAQs About Following Up on a Job Application

1. When is the best time to follow up on a job application?

• It’s best to wait at least a week after submitting your application before following up.

2. How should I follow up on a job application?

• You can follow up by email or phone call, using a professional and polite tone.

3. What should I say when following up on a job application?

• You should introduce yourself, ask about the status of your application, express your continued interest in the position, and thank the employer for their time.

4. How often should I follow up on a job application?

• It’s best to wait at least a week between each follow-up and limit yourself to two or three follow-ups.

5. What should I do if I don’t hear back after following up?

• If you don’t hear back after following up twice, it’s best to move on to other opportunities.

6. Should I follow up on a job application even if the job posting says not to?

• It’s best to follow the employer’s instructions, but if you’re unsure, a polite follow-up can sometimes be appropriate.

7. Can I follow up on a job application in person?

• In-person follow-ups are not recommended, as they can come across as pushy or unprofessional.

8. What if the employer doesn’t respond to my follow-up?

• If the employer doesn’t respond to your follow-up, it’s best to move on to other opportunities.

9. Can I follow up on a job application if I’ve already received a rejection?

• It’s usually not appropriate to follow up after receiving a rejection, unless the employer specifically invites you to do so.

10. How can I make my follow-up stand out?

• You can make your follow-up stand out by using a polite and professional tone, mentioning specific aspects of the job that appeal to you, and providing relevant supporting evidence.

11. What if I can’t find contact information for the employer?

• You can try searching online for the employer’s contact information, or reach out to your network for help.

12. What should I do if I make a mistake in my follow-up?

• If you make a mistake in your follow-up, send a correction or apology email as soon as possible.

13. Can I follow up on multiple job applications at once?

• Yes, but make sure to keep your communication organized and tailored to each specific employer and position.

14. What if the employer asks me to stop following up?

• If the employer asks you to stop following up, it’s best to respect their wishes and move on to other opportunities.

15. Can I follow up on a job application if I’m not sure if it was received?

• Yes, it’s appropriate to follow up if you’re unsure if your application was received.

16. Should I follow up if the employer says they’ll contact me?

• If the employer says they’ll contact you, it’s usually best to wait for their response rather than following up.

17. How can I show my enthusiasm for the position in my follow-up?

• You can show your enthusiasm by mentioning specific aspects of the job that appeal to you, providing relevant supporting evidence, and using a positive and enthusiastic tone.

18. What should I do if I get a vague response to my follow-up?

• If you get a vague response to your follow-up, it’s appropriate to politely ask for more information or clarification.

19. Can I ask for feedback in my follow-up?

• Yes, if you have a good rapport with the employer, you can ask for feedback on your application or interview.

20. What if the employer asks for more information or a follow-up interview?

• If the employer asks for more information or a follow-up interview, make sure to respond promptly and professionally. Thank them for their consideration and provide any additional information they may need. Be sure to prepare for the follow-up interview by researching the company and the position and practicing your answers to common interview questions. Remember to stay positive and enthusiastic, and to present yourself as a strong candidate for the job.

Final Thoughts on Following Up on a Job Application

Following up on a job application can be a nerve-wracking process, but it’s an important step in the job search process. By using a professional and polite tone, expressing your interest in the position, and following a timeline for follow-ups, you can make a strong impression on potential employers and increase your chances of landing your dream job.

However, it’s also important to know when to move on and focus your efforts elsewhere, and to continue learning and growing as a professional. Remember to stay positive and motivated, and to take each experience as an opportunity for growth and improvement. With these tips and strategies in mind, you can navigate the job search process with confidence and success.