How to Follow Up on a Job Application to Land More Interviews
Take control of your job search by following up the right way.
Starting your job search is an exciting moment—you're sending out your resume, and there's a buzz of anticipation about what's next. But after you hit "submit," the waiting game begins, and it can be a bit nerve-wracking. We get it - and we're here to show you how to follow up on a job application in a way that gets results.
Why follow up, you ask? Well, it's a fantastic way to show your enthusiasm for the job and to set you apart from other candidates who may not take this extra step.
It tells employers that you're not just interested—you're committed and eager to get started. This little nudge can often move your resume to the top of the pile and keep it fresh in the hiring manager's mind, increasing your chances of getting that interview request.
So, if you're feeling stuck on how to follow up on a job application, we've got your back! In this article, we share tips on the best timing for your message, what to include, and how to keep your tone upbeat and respectful. We also give sample templates to guide you on what to say in your follow-up.
How to Follow Up on a Job Application
Choosing the right way to follow up on your job application can make a significant difference in how your enthusiasm and professionalism are perceived by potential employers. Here are three common follow-up methods:
1. Following Up Via Email
Email is your go-to for a professional yet approachable follow-up. It's perfect because it gives you the space to craft your message carefully. When writing a follow-up email after your application, keep things light yet formal. Mention the job title and the date you applied and let them know you're still very interested in the position. This method is fantastic because it doesn't rush the hiring manager to respond immediately and allows them to get back to you at their convenience.
2. Following Up with a Phone Call
So, you may be asking, “Should I call a job after applying?” While making a phone call can feel more personal and direct, it's also more imposing. A phone call might work if the company has shown a preference for phone communication or you've already established a good connection with someone there. Just be sure to prepare what you want to say beforehand, be brief, and respect the recipient's time.
3. Following Up on Social Media
Social media is appropriate for following up if you initially found the job through a specific platform or if the employer actively uses it for recruitment. Send a short message directly to the recruiter or hiring manager, reiterating your interest and the specifics of your application. Remember to check your social media profile - it should look professional and be up-to-date, as there's a good chance they'll view it.
Who to Contact in Your Follow-Up
After submitting your application, your follow-up email or message should be directed at the hiring manager since they have the ultimate say in who gets hired. If your initial contact was through a recruiter, keeping the lines of communication open with them can also be beneficial. They often have direct updates and insights into your application status.
If you don’t have any contact information, start with the job posting, which often includes these details. The company's website is your next best resource if that doesn't pan out. Pages like "About Us" or "Team" frequently list key personnel and their contact info.
If you prefer a more direct approach and online searching isn't cutting it, don't hesitate to pick up the phone. Ask for the HR department – someone there can hopefully route your inquiry.
When to Follow Up on a Job Application
The secret to how to follow up on a job application is in the timing. A good rule of thumb is to give it one to two weeks after sending your application. This gives the hiring team enough time to look over your details but keeps you fresh in their minds. It's like hitting that sweet spot—not too soon, not too late!
Haven't heard back after your first check-in? It's perfectly fine to send one more follow-up a week or two later. Just keep it courteous and express your ongoing interest in the role. If you've already reached out twice and have not heard back, it might be time to put your energies elsewhere. More follow-ups might seem too pushy.
If the job listing explicitly asks you not to follow up, comply with this request. It demonstrates that you respect the company's process and are capable of following directions.
What to Say When Following Up
Knowing how to follow up on a job application requires a careful balance of enthusiasm and professionalism. Here's a guide on what to say to the hiring manager and what to avoid saying in your follow-up:
What to say in your follow-up:
- Let them know you're still very interested in the role and excited about the possibility of contributing to their team. Mention something specific about the company or the job that genuinely appeals to you.
- Give a quick reminder of who you are. Include your name, the position you applied for, and when you applied. This makes it easier for them to find your details.
- It's completely fine to inquire about where they are in the hiring process. A few lines asking for any updates they can share is perfect.
What not to say in your follow-up:
- Phrases like "I really need this job" can come off as too intense. Keep your tone positive and professional.
- Refrain from assuming you're already in line for the job. Phrases like "When I start working…" might make you seem too confident.
- Avoid critiquing their methods if the hiring process is taking longer than expected. Patience is a virtue here!
- Remember to keep your language polished even if you're reaching out via social media, which can feel more casual. Avoid slang and overly casual terms to show you're serious about the opportunity.
5 Tips: Follow-Up Best Practices
After submitting your resume, your follow-up email should strike the right note—friendly yet professional. Here are some helpful tips to keep in mind to ensure your follow-up leaves a great impression:
- Stay polite. Always start and end your messages with a polite greeting and closing. A little courtesy goes a long way in showing your respect and professionalism.
- Patience is key. Hiring processes can sometimes take a while, so give the employer reasonable time to respond to your application before following up.
- Avoid bombarding with multiple messages. If you’re thinking of sending the same message to a hiring manager via email, phone, and social media at the same time, think again. The last thing they want is a stalker on their hands.
- Double-check your application. Before reaching out, make sure your application was actually received. A quick check of your emails (don’t forget your spam folder) or the application platform should confirm this.
- Timing matters. Try to time your follow-up well. Early in the week and during business hours is usually best, avoiding holidays and late afternoons.
How to Follow Up on a Job Application: Sample Templates
If you’re still unsure how to follow up on a job application, we’ve got you covered! However you decide to follow up, these sample templates will help you figure out what to say confidently and professionally. You can use these samples for ideas and language, tweaking the information as necessary to fit your unique situation.
How to Follow Up on a Job Application: Email Examples
When writing your follow-up email, keep it concise and respectful. Always personalize each email by mentioning specific details about the position or company that excite you, which shows genuine enthusiasm and attention to detail.
Follow-Up Email - Sample 1
Subject line: Following up on my application for the marketing coordinator position
Dear [Hiring Manager's Name],
I am writing to reiterate my strong interest in the marketing coordinator position I applied for on [Application Date]. I am truly excited about the prospect of joining [Company Name] and leveraging my skills in digital marketing and project management to contribute to your team's success.
Since submitting my application, I have completed a certification in Google Analytics, which will further enhance my ability to contribute to your team. Please can you provide any updates on the hiring process? I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my background, skills, and certifications align with your team's needs.
Thank you very much for your time and consideration. I look forward to your response.
Warm regards,
[Your Name]
[Your contact information]
Follow-Up Email - Sample 2
Subject line: Following up on my application for the graphic designer position
Dear [Hiring Manager's Name],
I hope this message finds you well. I am writing to follow up on my application for the graphic designer position submitted on [Application Date]. I am particularly excited about the chance to work at [Company Name] because of your team's reputation for innovative visual storytelling and award-winning design projects.
Could you please provide any updates on the hiring process? I am eager to contribute my skills in digital design and creative solutions and am enthusiastic about the possibility of joining such a dynamic team.
Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to discussing how I can bring my unique design perspective to [Company Name].
Warm regards,
[Your Name]
[Your contact information]
How to Follow Up on a Job Application: Phone Call Examples
When following up with a phone call, it's important to be concise and respectful of the recipient's time. Clearly state your purpose right at the beginning of the call. If you get a hiring manager on the phone, leave room for them to respond and ask questions. If you have to leave a voicemail, make sure to end with a call to action.
Follow-Up Phone Call- Sample 1
"Good morning/afternoon [Hiring Manager’s Name]. This is [Your Name]. I recently applied for the marketing manager position at [Company Name]. I am following up to see if there have been any updates regarding my application. I am very enthusiastic about the opportunity to contribute to your team with my marketing expertise. I would be happy to answer any additional questions you may have.”
Follow-Up Voicemail - Sample 2
"Good morning/afternoon [Hiring Manager’s Name]. My name is [Your Name]. I'm inquiring about the status of my application for the software developer role that I submitted on [Application Date] at [Company Name]. I would appreciate any updates on the hiring status, and I'm eager to discuss how I can bring my programming skills to your team. My contact number is [your phone number], and my email address is [your email address]. I look forward to hearing back. Thank you for your time."
How to Follow Up on a Job Application: Social Media Examples
Even though social media can be more informal than email, remember to maintain a professional tone in your message. Treat the communication as you would an email to a potential employer. Also, social media isn't the place for lengthy messages. Keep your follow-up brief and to the point.
Follow-Up Social Media Message - Sample 1
Hi [Hiring Manager's Name],
I hope you're doing well! I submitted my application for the graphic designer role at [Company Name] last week. I am very excited about the chance to bring my creative expertise to your innovative team, especially after seeing your recent campaign on [mention a recent campaign or project]. I'd love to know more about the next steps in the hiring process. Thanks so much for your time!
Best, [Your Name]
Follow-Up Social Media Message- Sample 2
Hi [Hiring Manager's Name],
I hope you're having a great day! I wanted to touch base about the content writer position I applied for at [Company Name] last week. I'm excited about joining your team and bringing some fresh ideas to your content strategies, especially after seeing your latest blog posts about [specific topic]. I wanted to see if you need anything else from me. Thanks a lot for your time!
Cheers, [Your Name]
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