You’ve just submitted an application for a job you’re really interested in. While the waiting game has only just begun, you’re already anxious about your status.
Seeking instant gratification is human nature, but unfortunately, that’s not how it works. At some point, following up on your application is typically acceptable — if you do it properly.
4 Tips to Follow Up on a Job Application
Check the Rules
The last thing you want is to annoy the boss before you’ve even met them. Some hiring managers include specific rules for following up in the job description or emails sent after you submit your application.
This might include a strict “Don’t call us, we’ll call you” policy or instructions to sit tight until a certain date has passed. Failing to adhere to these rules could ruin your chances of getting hired, because it sends the impression you’re not a good listener.
Have Patience
You’d like to know where you stand with the job within 24 hours — at most — but that’s not typically how it works. Hiring managers are busy people, and many don’t even start looking at applications until the deadline to receive them has passed.
Therefore, it’s important to garner all your self control and wait at least a week or two to reach out. This will make you look interested, instead of desperate and quite frankly, annoying.
Be Polite
It’s only natural to be antsy if you applied for the job awhile ago and are still hearing crickets. However, taking your feelings out on the hiring manager won’t do anything but ensure you don’t get hired.
Instead, reach out using a polite and professional tone. Briefly reiterate your interest in the position and thank them for taking the time to review your application.
Know When to Quit
Reaching out about a job and not getting much information — or not receiving a response at all — is frustrating. However, pestering the hiring manager won’t increase your chances of getting the job.
No answer is typically all the response you should need to move on. Take this as a sign you’re too good for the company, because you can do better than an employer that leaves candidates in the dark.
Leave a Reply