When to follow up on a job application
Wait about a week after applying, or until the date the recruiter gave you has passed. Following up too soon can feel pushy; waiting a week shows patience and keeps you in mind.
After an interview, send a thank-you email within 24 hours, then follow up only if the decision date passes with no news. If there was no date, wait about a week.
How to write a follow-up that gets a reply
- 1
Keep it short. Three short paragraphs at most. The reader should be able to reply in a minute.
- 2
Use a clear subject line. Include the job title so it’s easy to find in a busy inbox.
- 3
Remind them of your fit. One line on your strongest match for the role is enough.
- 4
Stay polite. Never suggest they have forgotten you. Assume they are busy, because they usually are.
- 5
Follow up once or twice. If two follow-ups get no answer, move on and focus on other applications.
All 2 email templates
After applying
Send about a week after you apply if you haven’t heard anything.
Subject: Following up on my application for [Job title]
Dear Hiring Manager, I hope you are well. I applied for the [Job title] role at [Company] on [When you applied] and wanted to follow up to check that my application was received, and to ask about the next steps. I am still very interested in the role. My experience in [Your strongest match for the role] matches closely what you are looking for, and I would welcome the chance to discuss it. Thank you for your time. I look forward to hearing from you. Best regards, [Your name]
After an interview
Send if the date they gave you has passed with no news.
Subject: Following up: [Job title] interview
Dear Hiring Manager, Thank you again for interviewing me for the [Job title] position on [When you were interviewed]. I wanted to check in on the timeline for a decision. I enjoyed learning more about [Something you discussed], and our conversation made me even more excited about the chance to join [Company]. Please let me know if you need anything else from me. I look forward to hearing from you. Best regards, [Your name]
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