Job Application Follow-Up: Best Practices for Success Okay with one suggestion

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You’ve just sent off your job application, and now the waiting game begins. But what happens next? Should you simply sit back and hope for the best? Not quite. One of the most crucial steps in the job application process is often overlooked: the follow up email after application. This simple yet powerful action can significantly increase your chances of landing that dream job. 

But how do you go about it? When is the right time to send a job application follow up email, and what should it say? These questions can be tricky to navigate, especially when you’re eager to make a good impression without coming across as pushy. This blog will guide you through the best practices for a successful follow-up, ensuring you stand out from the crowd for all the right reasons. 

We’ll cover everything from the importance of following up to crafting the perfect follow up email after application. By the end, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge and confidence to follow up effectively, giving your application the boost it needs to get noticed. Let’s dive in and explore the art of job application follow-up! 

Why Follow-Up Matters 

The Importance of Following Up 

It serves as a gentle nudge to the hiring manager, reminding them of your interest in the role. In a sea of applications, a thoughtful follow-up can make you stand out, highlighting your enthusiasm and proactive attitude. Employers often appreciate candidates who take the initiative, as it reflects a strong work ethic and genuine interest in the position. 

Timing Your Follow-Up 

Timing is everything when it comes to a job application follow up email. You don’t want to send it too soon and risk appearing impatient, but you also don’t want to wait so long that the employer forgets about you. A well-timed follow-up demonstrates that you respect the hiring process while still being eager to learn about the status of your application.

How to Craft a Follow-Up Message 

Choosing the Right Medium 

Email is typically the best medium for a job application follow up email. It’s professional, allows for a clear record of communication, and is less intrusive than a phone call. However, if the job posting encouraged you to apply via another medium, such as LinkedIn, it’s perfectly acceptable to follow up through the same channel. 

Structuring Your Message 

A well-structured follow up email after application is key to making a positive impression. Start with a polite greeting and a brief reminder of who you are and the position you applied for. Then, express your continued interest in the role and inquire about the status of your application. Close with a thank you and an offer to provide any additional information they might need. 

Also Read: Technical Skills in the 21st Century: A Top Demand in Job Applications

Key Elements to Include 

Your job application follow up email should include the following: 

• A clear subject line that indicates the purpose of your email. 

• A brief reminder of your application, including the job title and the date you applied. 

• A polite inquiry about the status of your application. 

• An expression of continued interest in the position. 

• A closing that thanks the reader for their time and consideration. 

Best Practices for Effective Follow-Up 

Be Polite and Professional 

Always maintain a tone of professionalism in your follow up email after application. This isn’t just a quick message to a friend; it’s a continuation of your job application process. Use polite language, avoid slang, and make sure your email is free of spelling or grammatical errors. 

Keep It Concise 

While it’s important to cover all the necessary points, your job application follow up email should be concise. Hiring managers are busy people, so aim to get your message across in a few short paragraphs. A clear and concise email shows that you respect their time and can communicate effectively. 

Express Continued Interest 

One of the main purposes of a follow up email after application is to reiterate your enthusiasm for the role. Let the employer know that you’re still very interested in the position and would be excited to contribute to their team. This reminder can keep you top-of-mind as they make their hiring decision. 

Additionally, we can also recommend attaching your resume again for their ready reference. This reminder can keep you top-of-mind as they make their hiring decision.”  

Also Read: Job Application Toolkit: List of Essential Skills for Job Success 

Examples of Follow-Up Messages 

Initial Follow-Up 

Subject: Follow Up on [Job Title] Application – [Your Name] 

Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name], 

I hope this email finds you well. I wanted to follow up on my application for the [Job Title] position that I submitted on [Date]. I am very excited about the opportunity to join [Company Name] and contribute to [specific aspect of the job or company]. 

I would greatly appreciate any updates you could share regarding the status of my application. Please let me know if there is any additional information I can provide. 

Thank you for your time and consideration. 

Best regards, 

[Your Name] 

Follow-Up After an Interview 

Subject: Thank You and Follow-Up – [Your Name] 

Dear [Interviewer’s Name], 

Thank you so much for the opportunity to interview for the [Job Title] position. I truly enjoyed learning more about [Company Name] and the exciting projects you’re working on. 

I wanted to follow up on our conversation and reiterate my strong interest in the role. I believe my skills and experience are a great fit for your team, and I am very eager to contribute. 

Please let me know if there’s anything else you need from me at this stage. Thank you again for your time and consideration. 

Best regards, 

[Your Name] 

Follow-Up for Feedback 

Subject: Request for Feedback – [Job Title] Application

Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name], 

I wanted to follow up regarding my recent application for the [Job Title] position. While I understand that the position may have been filled, I would greatly appreciate any feedback you could provide on my application or interview. 

Your insights would be invaluable as I continue my job search and work on improving my application materials. 

Thank you very much for your time. 

Best regards, 

[Your Name] 

Common Mistakes to Avoid 

Over-Following Up 

It’s important to strike the right balance with your follow up email after application. Following up too frequently can come across as desperate or annoying. Limit your follow-ups to one initial email and possibly one more after a few weeks if you haven’t heard back. 

Being Too Aggressive or Pushy 

While it’s important to be proactive, avoid being too aggressive in your job application follow up email. A pushy tone can turn off hiring managers and hurt your chances of being considered for the role. Always be polite, respectful, and patient. 

Conclusion 

Recap of Best Practices 

Following up on a job application is a crucial step that can help you stand out from other candidates. By sending a well-timed and thoughtfully crafted follow up email after application, you demonstrate your professionalism and continued interest in the role.

Remember to keep your message polite, concise, and focused on your enthusiasm for the job. 

Final Tips for Successful Follow-Up 

As you navigate the job application process, don’t forget the importance of a good follow-up. It’s a small step that can make a big difference in your job search. Be patient, respectful, and confident in your communication, and you’ll be well on your way to securing that next great opportunity.