How to Follow Up After Applying
Applying for jobs is only the first step. Following up shows initiative, professionalism, and genuine interest and can significantly improve your chances of getting noticed by recruiters.
Here’s your 2025 guide on how, when, and what to say when following up after applying.
Step 1: Know When to Follow Up
Timing is key. You don’t want to seem impatient, but waiting too long can make your application get lost.
Follow-Up Timing Table
| Situation | Recommended Follow-Up Timing |
|---|---|
| Standard job application | 7–10 business days after submission |
| Referral application | 3–5 business days after submission |
| After networking connection | 1–3 business days after initial conversation |
| Interview follow-up | 24–48 hours after interview |
Recruiter Tip: Always check the job posting instructions; if it explicitly says “no follow-ups,” respect that.
Step 2: Choose Your Follow-Up Method
Email is the most professional and effective method, but some situations may call for LinkedIn messages or phone calls.
Follow-Up Methods Table
| Method | Best Use Case | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Standard application | Use a clear subject line, keep it concise, professional tone | |
| LinkedIn Message | Contacted a recruiter or hiring manager on LinkedIn | Personalize your message, reference the job |
| Phone Call | Only if company encourages it or for small businesses | Prepare a short script, be polite, don’t call repeatedly |
Step 3: Structure Your Follow-Up Email
A follow-up email should be brief, polite, and professional. Use this structure:
- Greeting – Address the recruiter or hiring manager by name
- Introduction – State your name and the position you applied for
- Reminder of Interest – Express enthusiasm for the role
- Value Statement – Briefly mention a key skill or achievement relevant to the role
- Call to Action – Politely inquire about the status of your application
- Closing – Thank them for their time
Follow-Up Email Template
Subject: Follow-Up on [Job Title] Application
Email Body:
Hi [Hiring Manager Name],
I hope this message finds you well. My name is [Your Name], and I recently applied for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name] on [Application Date].
I’m very excited about the opportunity to contribute to [Company Name] and bring my skills in [Key Skill/Experience] to the team. I wanted to kindly follow up to see if there’s any update regarding my application.
Thank you very much for your time and consideration. I look forward to the possibility of discussing how I can add value to your team.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
[LinkedIn Profile]
[Phone Number]
Step 4: Dos and Don’ts of Following Up
Follow-Up Table: Dos and Don’ts
| Dos | Don’ts |
|---|---|
| Be polite and professional | Be pushy or demanding |
| Keep it brief (1–2 paragraphs) | Write a long, detailed email |
| Reference your skills or value | Repeat your entire resume |
| Proofread for errors | Send multiple follow-ups in one day |
| Use a clear subject line | Use vague subject lines like “Hi” or “Checking in” |
Step 5: Additional Tips
- Track Your Applications: Keep a spreadsheet with job title, date applied, follow-up date, and contact info.
- Be Patient but Persistent: A second follow-up is okay after another 7–10 business days if no response.
- Leverage LinkedIn: Sometimes connecting with the hiring manager can improve visibility.
- Tailor Each Message: Avoid generic follow-ups; show genuine interest in the company and role.
Step 6: After the Follow-Up
- If you get a response: Reply promptly and professionally
- If you don’t get a response: Move on but keep the application in your records
- Keep networking and applying to other roles simultaneously
Fact: Candidates who follow up are 20–25% more likely to get noticed by recruiters than those who don’t.
