The Dos and Don'ts of Following Up After Job Applications

Following up after submitting a job application is a crucial step in the job search process. Knowing the dos and don'ts of following up can help you stand out to potential employers and increase your chances of landing that dream job.

When to Follow Up

One of the most common questions job seekers have is when to follow up after submitting an application. It's important to give employers some time to review your materials before reaching out. A good rule of thumb is to wait about one to two weeks after submitting your application before following up. This allows the hiring team to go through all the applications and gives you a better chance of receiving a response.

Dos of Following Up

1. Send a Polite Email

When following up on a job application, it's best to send a polite and professional email to the hiring manager or recruiter. Keep your message concise and to the point, expressing your continued interest in the position and reiterating your qualifications. Thank them for considering your application and express your eagerness to hear back from them.

2. Highlight Your Qualifications

In your follow-up email, take the opportunity to remind the hiring team of your qualifications and why you would be a great fit for the position. Mention any relevant experience or skills that make you a strong candidate. This can help jog their memory and make you stand out among other applicants.

3. Be Persistent, But Not Pushy

It's important to be persistent in following up on your application, but there's a fine line between being persistent and being pushy. If you haven't heard back after your initial follow-up email, it's okay to send one or two more follow-up emails over the course of a few weeks. However, if you still don't receive a response, it's best to move on and focus your efforts on other opportunities.

Don'ts of Following Up

1. Don't Be Too Aggressive

While it's important to be persistent in following up on your application, being too aggressive can do more harm than good. Avoid bombarding the hiring team with multiple follow-up emails in a short period of time, as this can come across as desperate or annoying. Instead, space out your follow-ups and be respectful of their time.

2. Don't Call Constantly

While following up via email is generally the preferred method of communication, calling the hiring manager or recruiter constantly to inquire about your application is not recommended. Most hiring teams are busy and may not have time to take unscheduled calls from applicants. Stick to email communication for your follow-ups to be more professional and considerate.

3. Don't Burn Bridges

No matter the outcome of your job application, it's important to maintain a positive and professional relationship with the hiring team. Even if you don't get the job, thank them for their time and consideration and express your interest in future opportunities with their company. You never know when a new position may open up that is a better fit for your skills and experience.

Conclusion

Following up after submitting a job application is a critical step in the job search process. By knowing the dos and don'ts of following up, you can present yourself in the best possible light to potential employers and increase your chances of landing that coveted job. Remember to be polite, highlight your qualifications, and be persistent but respectful in your follow-ups. With the right approach, you can stand out from the competition and land the job of your dreams.