The Right Way to Follow Up After a Job Application

Applying for a job can be both exciting and nerve-wracking. After submitting your application, it’s important to follow up in a professional way to demonstrate your interest, reinforce your suitability, and potentially increase your chances of securing an interview. Knowing the right approach ensures you remain memorable without coming across as pushy.

Why Following Up Matters

Following up shows initiative and professionalism. It can help your application stand out in a crowded job market, signal your enthusiasm for the role, and keep you top of mind for hiring managers and recruiters. Done correctly, it also gives you an opportunity to address any points you may have missed in your initial application.

When to Follow Up

Timing is key. Wait at least one to two weeks after submitting your application before following up. If the job posting has a closing date, consider following up a few days after the closing date. This gives the employer sufficient time to review applications without feeling rushed.

How to Follow Up

• Use the Right Method: Email is typically the preferred method for following up, as it is professional, non-intrusive, and allows the hiring manager to respond at their convenience. In some cases, a phone call may be appropriate, particularly if you have previously been in contact with the recruiter.

• Be Professional and Concise: Keep your message brief and polite. Introduce yourself, reference the role you applied for, express your continued interest, and inquire if there is any update on the hiring process.

• Reiterate Your Value: Use your follow-up as an opportunity to remind the employer why you are a strong candidate. Highlight a key skill or experience relevant to the role without repeating your entire resume.

• Show Appreciation: Always thank the hiring manager for their time and consideration. Ending on a courteous note reinforces your professionalism.

• Avoid Over-Following Up: Following up more than once or twice can come across as pushy. If you don’t receive a response after your second follow-up, it’s best to focus on other opportunities while remaining polite and professional.

Example Follow-Up Email

Subject: Follow-Up on [Job Title] Application

Hello [Hiring Manager's Name],

I hope this message finds you well. I recently submitted my application for the [Job Title] position and wanted to follow up to express my continued interest in the role. I am very enthusiastic about the opportunity to contribute to [Company Name] and bring my skills in [specific skill/experience] to your team.

Please let me know if there is any additional information I can provide. Thank you very much for your time and consideration.

Kind regards,

[Your Name]

Conclusion

Following up after a job application is a simple yet powerful way to demonstrate your professionalism and genuine interest in the role. By being timely, polite, and concise, you can make a positive impression on hiring managers and increase your chances of moving forward in the hiring process.

Job Skills Network is your regional and rural recruitment partner. Looking for your next local role? Check out the latest job listings in Central Queensland or Northern Territory.