Guide
Following up after a job application: timing and template
A short follow-up, sent at the right time, reminds the recruiter of your application and shows your interest in the role.
When to follow up
Allow one to two weeks after applying, or after the date given in the advert. After an interview, wait for the date the recruiter gave you, then follow up two or three days later. One follow-up per stage is enough; a second one, a week later, is still possible.
A message template
Dear Ms Martin,
I applied on 4 November for the Communications Officer role. I remain very interested in the position, especially in the launch of your new range.
Could you let me know where the recruitment process stands?
Kind regards,
Lea Dupont
Three elements are enough: the role and the date, a precise reason for your interest, a simple question.
Who to write to
Write to the person named in the advert, or to the person who interviewed you. When the advert only gives a generic address, look for the recruiter or the future manager on LinkedIn. See knowing who to address your application to.
Frequently asked questions
Follow up by email or by phone?
Email is the most common channel: it leaves a record and the recruiter replies when they can. A phone call suits a small company or the stage after an interview.
How many times should I follow up?
Once or twice per stage, a week apart. After that, focus on your other applications.
How do I keep track of follow-up dates?
A table with the company, the role, the date sent and the follow-up date is enough. ATSway tracks each application and reminds you to follow up.