How to Follow Up on a Job Application

When you're searching for a job, it can be exciting to come across a listing that seems like the perfect fit, but waiting to hear back from your potential employer can be challenging. If it’s been two weeks since you submitted your application and you haven’t heard back, consider following up. Use these tips to check in with your potential employer positively and respectfully.

Wait two weeks.  

Although you may be eager to get your dream job, hiring managers typically need some time to receive and assess job applications before moving into the interview process. Companies and hiring managers balance many moving parts during the hiring process.

Generally, experts recommend waiting about two weeks before following up with potential employers. It may be tempting to reach out sooner, but waiting at least two weeks to follow up gives potential employers time to read and respond to your application.

Before initiating contact, it’s a good idea to reread the job posting. Some companies will request that you do not follow up. If they don’t mention anything about it, feel free to reach out.

Identify the hiring manager.

When following up on a job application, it's important to reach out to the right person. Most often, you'll want to locate the hiring manager. The hiring manager is the person responsible for filling the open position.

To find the hiring manager, check to see who initially posted the job and find them on a site such as LinkedIn. Their direct email address may be listed there, or you may be able to find their contact details on the company's website. If not, you’ll still be able to send them a message through the platform. Make sure your own LinkedIn profile is up to date, as the hiring manager will likely peruse your page.

Before contacting a hiring manager, it’s wise to double-check that you’ve followed all steps listed in the job posting and submit anything you might be missing. Employers appreciate a detail-oriented applicant. This is an opportunity to show them how well you pay attention to detail and help the hiring process go smoothly. 

Choose the best method.

There are multiple ways to follow up after submitting your application. In a world where the application process relies heavily on technology, email is often the most popular option. However, picking up the phone or visiting the office is acceptable in most cases.

Follow-up email

When writing your follow-up email, compose a clear subject line and keep your email short. Politely greet the contact by name, express how you will be a good fit for the company, ask any critical questions, and sign off by thanking them for their time.

Using this approach can allow the hiring manager the flexibility to respond at a time that’s most convenient for them. It’s also a way to document your conversation. Attach your resume to encourage the hiring manager to review your skills and qualifications once more.

Sample follow-up email 

Subject: Follow-up on Application for [Job Title] - [Your Last Name]

Dear [Hiring Manager's Name],

I hope this email finds you well. I wanted to follow up on the status of my job application for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name], which I submitted on [Date of Application]. I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to join your team and contribute to [Company Name]'s continued success.

I understand that the hiring process can be quite busy, yet I would greatly appreciate any information you can provide regarding the status of my application. 

Based on my background and the research I've done on [Company Name], I am confident that my skills and experience align well with the requirements of the position. If there is any additional information you require, please let me know.

Thank you for considering my application, and I look forward to the possibility of joining your team.

Sincerely,

[Your Full Name]

[Your Phone Number]

[Your Email Address]

Follow-up phone call

Another option is to follow up by phone. Phone calls are typically less popular than emails, as unplanned calls may catch a hiring manager off guard. They may not have your application readily available, can forget key details of your call when they refer to your application later, or it may simply be a bad time for them.

Still, if you do choose to call, have your discussion points ready so you can have a quick, productive conversation. Thank the hiring manager for their time before wrapping up the call. Be mindful of the company's business hours and keep all calls before 4:00 p.m. in the company’s time zone.

Follow-up in person

If the job you’re applying to is local, you may choose to follow up in person. This option may not be right for a corporate setting, where employees tend to have tight schedules or can be difficult to locate on a moment's notice. However, if you're applying for a job at a small, local business where the hiring manager is generally expected to be around and available for customers, dropping in to introduce yourself and express interest may be a welcome gesture.

To follow up with your application in person, ask to see the hiring manager. If they’re unavailable at the time, ask when they might be available and return then. Try to keep it casual and be understanding of busy schedules.

Job application follow-up tips

Keep these quick tips in mind as you follow up on your job applications:

1. Keep it short and sweet.  

Hiring managers are often in communication with multiple candidates. Keeping correspondence brief shows that you respect their time. Be friendly, but try to sidestep delving into personal stories and experiences. Limiting the conversation to a professional discussion will serve both parties well.

Tip: Make a list of talking points

No matter your contact method, keep a shortlist of discussion points to guide your conversation. This tip is especially helpful if you can get a little nervous in these situations.

2. Invite clarification.

An essential part of following up with your job application is asking your recruiter if they have any questions for you. Be ready to expand on any parts of your resume. This is an opportunity to shine even more light on your qualifications and skills.

3. Highlight your eligibility and interest.

Communicating with the hiring manager allows you to advocate for your interest in the desired role. It’s essential to be informed about the company, provide a portfolio or demonstration of your skills, and connect your experience with the job description. Following up can be a great way to highlight your eligibility and interest in the job.

It can also show you’re genuinely interested in the job and can help move the process along. Use a follow-up as a chance to ask about scheduling an interview, but only ask if the timing feels right.

4. Express gratitude.

Hiring managers are typically hard workers and maintain a fast-paced work ethic. They’re not only seeking the most qualified candidate but also looking for applicants who are pleasant to interact with and are enthusiastic about the job. It’s always good to conclude your emails to the hiring manager with gratitude.

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