It’s a nerve-wracking experience to submit a job application and wait for a response. You’ve put in the time and effort to tailor your resume and cover letter, and now you’re eagerly anticipating news of whether or not you’ve made it to the next round.
So, when is it appropriate to follow up on an application?
There’s no hard and fast rule, but as a general rule of thumb, you should wait at least two weeks after submitting your application before reaching out. This gives the hiring manager time to review your materials and make a decision.
Ask yourself these questions:
* Has it been at least two weeks since you submitted your application?
* Have you heard anything from the company since then?
* Are you genuinely curious about the status of your application?
If you’ve answered yes to all of these questions, then it’s probably okay to reach out for an update.
How to ask for an update on your application
When you do reach out, be polite and professional. Keep your email brief and to the point.
Here’s a sample email template that you can use:
Subject: Update on Application for [Position Name]
Body:
Dear [Hiring Manager Name],
I hope this email finds you well.
I’m writing to follow up on my application for the [Position Name] position that I submitted on [Date].
I’m very interested in this opportunity and I’m confident that my skills and experience would be a valuable asset to your team.
I understand that you’re busy, but I would be grateful if you could spare a moment to let me know the status of my application.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
What to do if you don’t get a response
If you don’t get a response after a week or two, don’t give up. You can try reaching out again, or you can call the company’s HR department to inquire about your application.
Here are some additional tips:
- Be persistent. Don’t be afraid to reach out multiple times if you don’t hear back right away.
- Be professional. Always maintain a positive and respectful tone in your communications.
- Be patient. The hiring process can take time. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t hear back right away.
Follow these tips, and you’ll increase your chances of getting a response to your application update request.
FAQs about Following Up on Job Applications
1. How often should I follow up on a job application?
You should wait at least two weeks after submitting your application before reaching out for an update. After that, you can follow up every week or two until you hear back.
2. What should I say in my follow-up email?
Keep your email brief and to the point. State your name, the position you applied for, and the date you submitted your application. Thank the hiring manager for their time and consideration, and ask for an update on the status of your application.
3. What should I do if I don’t get a response to my follow-up email?
If you don’t get a response after a week or two, you can try reaching out again, or you can call the company’s HR department to inquire about your application.
4. Is it okay to follow up on a job application multiple times?
Yes, it’s okay to follow up on a job application multiple times. However, you should be persistent but not annoying. Don’t send multiple emails every day, and don’t call the company every hour.
5. What are some tips for following up on a job application?
Be polite and professional, keep your emails brief and to the point, and be patient.
6. What should I do if I’m not selected for the position?
If you’re not selected for the position, don’t give up. Thank the hiring manager for their time and consideration, and ask for feedback on your application. This will help you improve your chances of success in the future.
7. Is it okay to call the company to follow up on a job application?
Yes, it’s okay to call the company to follow up on a job application. However, you should only do this if you haven’t received a response to your email after a week or two. When you call, be polite and professional, and ask for an update on the status of your application.
8. What should I do if I’m not sure whether or not to follow up on a job application?
If you’re not sure whether or not to follow up on a job application, it’s always better to err on the side of caution. Reach out to the company and ask for an update. The worst that can happen is that they don’t respond.