A well-crafted follow-up email can significantly enhance your chances of staying top-of-mind during the hiring process. Job seekers often overlook the impact of a concise and polite follow-up, which can demonstrate their enthusiasm for the position. A timely follow-up increases engagement with hiring managers and reinforces the applicant’s interest in the company. Tailoring the message to reflect the job description further showcases the candidate’s understanding of the role and alignment with the organization’s values.
Crafting the Perfect Follow-Up Email After Your Job Application
Okay, so you’ve just hit “send” on that job application and now you’re sitting there, refreshing your inbox every five minutes. We’ve all been there, right? But, here’s the thing: following up can be a great way to show your enthusiasm and keep your application on the recruiter’s radar. So, let’s dive into how to structure a follow-up email that grabs attention in all the right ways!
1. Timing is Key
Before we jump into the structure, let’s talk about timing. Sending your follow-up email too soon can come off as pushy, while waiting too long can make it seem like you don’t care. Here’s a simple rule of thumb:
- If you applied online, wait about one week.
- If you had an interview, follow up within 2-3 days.
2. Subject Line Matters
A catchy, clear subject line can make a difference. Keep it simple! Just include your name and the position you applied for. Here are a few examples:
| Subject Line |
|---|
| Follow-Up on Job Application: [Your Name] for [Position Name] |
| Checking In: [Your Name] – [Position Name] |
3. Start with a Warm Greeting
Keep it friendly and professional. If you know the name of the hiring manager, use it! Something like:
- Hi [Hiring Manager’s Name],
- Hello [Hiring Manager’s First Name],
4. Open with a Quick Reminder
Get straight to the point by reminding them who you are and what position you applied for. This part is super straightforward:
- Example: “I hope this message finds you well! I’m writing to follow up on my application for the [Job Title] position that I submitted on [Date].”
5. Express Enthusiasm
Show the hiring manager that you’re excited about the opportunity. This not only makes you seem eager but also reinforces your interest in the job:
- Example: “I’m really excited about the chance to join [Company Name] and contribute to your team.”
6. Keep it Short and Sweet
Remember, recruiters are busy people. Be brief and to the point. You’re not writing a novel here—about 3-4 short paragraphs are more than enough. Here’s how to structure your main body:
- Reiterate your interest in the position.
- Highlight any specific skills or experiences relevant to the job.
- Politely inquire about the status of your application.
7. Thank Them for Their Time
Wrap it up by showing appreciation. A little gratitude goes a long way:
- Example: “Thank you for considering my application. I appreciate your time and I look forward to hearing from you soon!”
8. Sign Off Correctly
A warm closing can leave a good impression. Use one of these for your sign-off:
- Best regards,
- Warm regards,
- Thank you,
Then, add your name, LinkedIn profile link (if relevant), and any other contact information. You want them to be able to reach you easily if they need to!
Sample Follow-Up Email
Here’s a quick peek at what your follow-up email might look like all put together:
Subject: Follow-Up on Job Application: [Your Name] for [Position Name] Hi [Hiring Manager's Name], I hope this message finds you well! I’m writing to follow up on my application for the [Job Title] position that I submitted on [Date]. I’m really excited about the chance to join [Company Name] and contribute to your team. I wanted to reiterate my enthusiasm for the role and emphasize that my skills in [relevant skills or experiences] make me a good fit for your needs. Thank you for considering my application. I appreciate your time and I look forward to hearing from you soon! Best regards, [Your Name] [Your LinkedIn Profile] [Your Phone Number]
With this structure in mind, you’re all set to write a follow-up that could help you land that dream job. Just remember to keep it friendly, professional, and concise!
Follow-Up Email Samples After Job Application
Follow-Up After Job Application Submission
Subject: Follow-Up on My Job Application for [Job Title]
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I hope this message finds you well. I wanted to take a moment to follow up on my application for the [Job Title] position submitted on [submission date]. I remain enthusiastic about the opportunity to join [Company Name] and contribute to your team’s success.
Could you please provide me with an update regarding my application status? I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Thank you for your time!
Best regards,
[Your Name]
[Your LinkedIn Profile or Portfolio URL]
Expressing Continued Interest After Application
Subject: Continued Interest in [Job Title] Position
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I hope you’re having a great week! I’m writing to express my continued interest in the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. I am excited about the possibility of bringing my skills in [specific skills related to the job] to your team.
If there are any updates regarding my application status, I would greatly appreciate it if you could share them with me. Thank you for considering my application.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Contact Information]
Checking In One Week After Submission
Subject: Checking In on My Application for [Job Title]
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I hope this message finds you well! I wanted to check in on the status of my application for the [Job Title] role that I submitted on [submission date]. I am very eager about this position and would love to know if there’s any update you can share.
Thank you once again for your time and consideration.
Warm regards,
[Your Name]
[Your Phone Number]
Following Up After an Interview
Subject: Thank You and Follow-Up on [Job Title] Interview
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
Thank you very much for the opportunity to interview for the [Job Title] position on [interview date]. It was a pleasure to discuss my fit for the role and learn more about the exciting initiatives at [Company Name].
I am writing to follow up and see if there have been any updates regarding my application status.
I look forward to the possibility of working together!
Best,
[Your Name]
[Your LinkedIn URL]
Inquiring About the Timeline After Application
Subject: Inquiry About Timeline for [Job Title] Application
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I hope you are doing well! I wanted to reach out to inquire about the timeline for the selection process for the [Job Title] position I applied for on [submission date]. I am very excited about the opportunity to contribute to your team and would appreciate any updates you might have.
Thank you for your consideration!
Kind regards,
[Your Name]
[Your Email Address]
Polite Follow-Up After a Job Fair
Subject: Follow-Up After Job Fair – [Job Title]
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
It was wonderful meeting you at [Job Fair/Event Name] on [date]. I wanted to follow up regarding the [Job Title] position we discussed. I am very interested in exploring this opportunity further and would welcome any updates about my application status.
Thank you for your consideration! Looking forward to hearing from you.
Best wishes,
[Your Name]
[Your Contact Information]
Requesting Feedback After Rejection
Subject: Request for Feedback on My Application for [Job Title]
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I hope this note finds you well. Thank you for the opportunity to apply for the [Job Title] position. Although I understand I wasn’t selected, I would genuinely appreciate any feedback you could provide regarding my application or interview.
Your insights would be invaluable as I continue to refine my approach and enhance my candidacy for future opportunities.
Thank you for your time!
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your LinkedIn URL]
Following Up After an Unanswered Application
Subject: Following Up on My Application for [Job Title]
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I hope this message finds you well. I wanted to follow up on my application for the [Job Title] role, submitted on [submission date], as I have not yet received a response. I am very eager about the possibility of joining your talented team at [Company Name].
If there are any updates you can provide, I would greatly appreciate it.
Thank you and looking forward to your reply.
Warm regards,
[Your Name]
[Your Contact Details]
Following Up on a Referral
Subject: Following Up on My Application for [Job Title] (Referred by [Referrer’s Name])
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I hope you are doing well. I wanted to reach out following my application for the [Job Title] position, which was referred by [Referrer’s Name]. I am very excited about the opportunity to work at [Company Name] and leverage my skills in [specific skills related to the job] to contribute positively.
If you have any updates regarding my application status, I would greatly appreciate hearing from you.
Thank you for your consideration!
Best,
[Your Name]
[Your LinkedIn Profile]
Following Up to Stay in Touch
Subject: Staying in Touch Regarding My Application for [Job Title]
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I hope you’re having a great day! I just wanted to reach out to express my gratitude for the opportunity to apply for the [Job Title] position. I remain very interested in the role and I would love the chance to stay in touch regarding my application status, as well as any future opportunities at [Company Name].
Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to your response!
Best regards,
[Your Name]
[Your Phone Number]
Reaching Out After Networking
Subject: Great Connecting at [Event] – [Job Title] Application
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I hope this message finds you well! It was a pleasure connecting with you at [Event or Networking Opportunity]. I wanted to follow up on my application for the [Job Title] role at [Company Name] and express my enthusiasm for the opportunity to work together.
If you could share any updates regarding my application status, I would greatly appreciate it. Thank you!
Warm regards,
[Your Name]
[Your LinkedIn URL]
How can a well-crafted follow-up email enhance your job application process?
A well-crafted follow-up email enhances your job application process by keeping you on the hiring manager’s radar. It demonstrates your continued interest in the position and the company. A follow-up email helps address any questions or concerns that may have arisen during the application process. It provides an opportunity to reiterate your qualifications and align them with the company’s needs. A timely follow-up email establishes your professionalism and proactive nature, which are qualities that employers value. A strong follow-up email may lead to further discussions, interviews, or networking opportunities.
What key elements should be included in a follow-up email after submitting an application?
A follow-up email after submitting an application should include a clear subject line that indicates the purpose of the email. It should start with a polite greeting, addressing the hiring manager by name if possible. The body should express gratitude for the opportunity to apply and mention the specific position applied for. It is important to briefly restate your interest in the role and highlight a key qualification or experience. The email should also include an inquiry about the status of the application to demonstrate your eagerness. Lastly, it should close with a professional sign-off and your contact information.
When is the appropriate time to send a follow-up email after an application submission?
The appropriate time to send a follow-up email after an application submission is typically one to two weeks after the initial application. This timeframe allows the hiring team enough time to process applications and identify candidates for interviews. A follow-up too soon may come across as impatient, while waiting too long may lead to being forgotten. If the job posting specifies a timeline for hiring decisions, it is best to follow that timeline when considering when to send a follow-up. Timeliness is crucial in making a positive impression on potential employers.
Why is it important to personalize your follow-up email after submitting an application?
Personalizing your follow-up email after submitting an application is important because it demonstrates genuine interest in the specific role and company. A personalized email conveys that you have taken the time to research the organization and understand its values and goals. Including specific details about the job or the company’s recent achievements makes the email stand out. Personalization helps establish a connection with the hiring manager, which may increase your chance of being remembered among numerous applicants. Tailored content enhances your professionalism and shows that you are thoughtful and detail-oriented.
So there you have it—a solid follow-up email can really set you apart in the job application process! Whether you choose a friendly tone or go for something a bit more formal, just remember to keep it genuine and concise. Thanks for taking the time to read through our tips. We hope you find the perfect job and snag that interview! Feel free to drop by again for more insights and advice. Good luck out there!