How to Follow Up After a Job Application (With Email Templates)

How to Follow Up After a Job Application

Wondering how to follow up after job application submissions can be perplexing, yet doing so can significantly boost your chances of success. A carefully timed and well-crafted follow-up email can set you apart and highlight your interest in the role.

Why Following Up Matters

Following up after a job application may feel daunting, but it is a critical step. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average job opening attracts around 250 resumes, making it essential to reinforce your candidacy. A follow-up demonstrates your enthusiasm and keeps you on the employer's radar.

Timing Your Follow-Up

When to Follow Up

Timing is everything when it comes to following up. Ideally, send your follow-up email seven to ten days after submitting your application. This window allows the employer enough time to process applications while ensuring your inquiry arrives at an opportune moment.

Use a job tracker like IceSume's tool to get notified when a follow-up is due, with built-in automation that flags applications unanswered for seven days.

Crafting Your Follow-Up Email

Components of an Effective Follow-Up

A follow-up email should be concise, polite, and professional. Here are the crucial elements:

Subject Line: Keep it clear and to the point, such as "Following Up on [Job Title] Application."
Introduction: Reintroduce yourself and mention the position you applied for.
Body: Briefly highlight your qualifications and express continued interest.
Conclusion: Thank the recipient for their time and consideration.

Sample Email Templates

Template 1: General Example

Subject: Following Up on [Job Title] Application

Hi [Recipient's Name],

I hope this message finds you well. I am writing to follow up on my application submitted on [date] for the [Job Title] position. I am very enthusiastic about the opportunity to join [Company Name] and bring my [specific skills or experiences] to your team.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to any updates you might have about the hiring process.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

Template 2: Follow-Up After No Response

Subject: Application Follow-Up - [Job Title]

Dear [Recipient's Name],

I wanted to reach out to see if there were any updates or further information regarding my application for the [Job Title] role. I applied on [date] and remain very excited about the opportunity to contribute to [Company Name].

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

The Importance of Persistence

While one follow-up is typically sufficient, sending a second follow-up one week later—if no response is received—can be beneficial. Be professional and concise, emphasizing your ongoing interest in the role.

Common Follow-Up Mistakes

What to Avoid

Mistakes can diminish the effectiveness of your follow-up. Avoid these common pitfalls:

Being too aggressive: Respect the employer’s timeline by waiting at least a week before following up.
Sounding desperate: Maintain a professional tone without overselling yourself or pleading.
Neglecting personalization: Customize each email to show genuine interest in the specific role and company.

Sources & Further Reading

Bureau of Labor Statistics — Provides insights on the job market and hiring trends.
Forbes — Offers strategies for effective job application follow-up.
Harvard Business Review — Discusses the importance of communication in job searches.
Indeed — Offers career advice and tips on interviewing and follow-up techniques.
Glassdoor — Shares employer reviews and hiring practices.