Applying for a job is an exciting yet nerve-wracking process, especially when days or weeks go by without a response. While it’s natural to feel anxious, a well-timed and professional follow-up can make a positive impression and even boost your chances of securing an interview.
In this guide, we’ll share actionable tips on how to follow up after submitting a job application, along with sample email templates to help you communicate effectively.
Why Following Up Matters
Following up demonstrates your interest and professionalism. It allows you to:
- Reaffirm your enthusiasm for the position.
- Highlight your qualifications briefly.
- Establish yourself as a proactive candidate.
However, it’s essential to follow up the right way to avoid coming across as pushy or impatient.
Step 1: Timing Is Everything
Timing is crucial when following up. Give the hiring manager enough time to review your application, typically waiting 7–14 days after submitting it. If the job posting specifies a timeline for responses, follow that guideline.
Step 2: Double-Check Your Application
Before reaching out, confirm that your application was successfully submitted. It’s easy to overlook steps like attaching your resume or completing a required form. Review the job posting to ensure you’ve followed all instructions.
Step 3: Find the Right Contact
Whenever possible, address your follow-up email to a specific person, such as the hiring manager or recruiter. Check the company’s website or LinkedIn for contact information. If this isn’t available, a general salutation like “Dear Hiring Manager” is acceptable.
Step 4: Craft a Professional Follow-Up Email
Your email should be polite, concise, and tailored to the position. Here’s a structure to guide you:
- Subject Line: Make it clear and professional (e.g., “Follow-Up on [Job Title] Application”).
- Opening: Greet the recipient and mention when you applied.
- Express Interest: Reiterate your enthusiasm for the role and company.
- Highlight Skills: Briefly mention one or two qualifications that make you a strong fit.
- Offer Assistance: Let them know you’re happy to provide additional information or documents.
- Closing: Thank them for their time and express your hope to hear back.
Sample Follow-Up Email Templates
Template 1: General Follow-Up
Subject: Follow-Up on [Job Title] Application
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I recently applied for the [Job Title] position on [Date] and wanted to check in on your hiring timeline.
I am very enthusiastic about the opportunity to join [Company Name] and contribute my [specific skills/experience]. Please let me know if there’s any additional information I can provide to support my application.
Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Template 2: Personalized Follow-Up
Subject: Follow-Up on [Job Title] Application
Hi [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I hope all is well. I’m writing to follow up on my application for the [Job Title] role at [Company Name], which I submitted on [Date].
I am excited about the possibility of contributing to your team, particularly in [specific area of expertise or company project]. With my experience in [relevant experience], I believe I could make a meaningful impact.
If there’s anything further I can provide to assist in the hiring process, please don’t hesitate to ask.
Thank you again for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of contributing to your team.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Step 5: Be Persistent (But Polite)
If you don’t hear back within a week of your follow-up, it’s okay to send one more polite email. Beyond that, consider moving on and focusing on other opportunities.
English Skills for Career
If you’re applying for roles in international companies, improving your English skills can give you a competitive edge. The International English Test (IET) offers flexible, affordable certifications recognized by global employers. With AI-powered evaluations for speaking and writing, IET helps you confidently showcase your English proficiency to potential employers.
Final Thoughts
Following up on a job application is a critical step in the hiring process. It shows your enthusiasm and professionalism while keeping you top of mind with recruiters. By following the tips and templates provided, you can craft effective follow-ups that leave a positive impression.
For more career advice and to enhance your job prospects with globally recognized English certifications, visit International English Test.
I am Nilay, an experienced English Language Assessment Director at the International English Test, where I have been working full-time since February 2020. I specialize in helping people worldwide validate their English proficiency through comprehensive assessments and certifications.
Before joining the International English Test, I worked as a self-employed English Language Assessment Consultant from January 2015 to December 2019. During this time, I assisted companies and individuals in improving their language skills, helping them achieve their academic and professional goals.
I hold a degree in Engineering and have also studied at Shafston International College in Australia. My educational background has equipped me with the tools to make a meaningful impact in the field of English language learning. Additionally, I enjoy sharing my expertise through articles that explore effective teaching methods and language assessment strategies, contributing to the International English Test and the broader assessment community.
