How to follow up a job application

You’ve done the all-important work of crafting your job application email, however, you’re yet to hear back. What’s next? Learn how to follow up a job application.

Emailing the hiring manager regarding your recent job application is a good way to establish rapport and find out where they are in the hiring process. It’s also a good way to show your eagerness and that you’re proactive as well as an opportunity to enquire if they need anything else from you to help their deliberations.

When to follow up on a job application

Recruiting takes time, so it’s important you leave enough time for the hiring manager to adequately review your resume. Especially if the position has attracted a high volume of applicants.

According to one staffing firm that surveyed 300 human resource managers, the sweet spot for following up on a job application is after one to two weeks. The next highest response was two to three weeks.

To gauge what time might be right for you, refer to the initial job ad. Did the ad list an ideal start date? Is the ad still open and accepting applications? Tailor the timing of your follow-up email based on the information available to you.

How to follow up on a job application

Approach your follow-up email with professionalism and an open mind. After all, you don’t want to come across as pushy when the hiring manager has not yet made up their mind.

Use a clear subject line. Follow a formula like your job application email: [Your name] – Following up [Job Title].

Be humble, helpful, and concise in the body of your email and ensure you answer the usual who, what and why.

• A little on who you are
• What job application you are following up
• Why you are contacting the hiring manager again
• What action you would like from the email

If you follow the company on LinkedIn and notice a recent accolade, achievement, or success story, it might be nice to include a nod to this in your email. This shows that you’re across the latest information and have an active interest in the company.

Follow up on a job application example

Hi [Hiring Manager],

I applied for the position of [Job Title] two weeks ago. I’m reaching out as I would like to follow up to see if my application had been received and check on the timeline for filling the role.

I’m excited about the prospect of joining [Company Name]. I recently saw [Company Name’s recent accolade or achievement] and [why this excites you and you would like to join the team].

I feel my [describe your experience and skills] would be a great asset in [describe what the role involves].

Please let me know if you require anything further from me to help you review my application. I can also be reached on [Your phone number].

Kind regards,
[Your name]