One of the more frustrating parts of the job hunt is waiting for a company to respond to your application. While the hiring manager may have passed over your resume, it’s always possible they’re still reviewing a large pool of candidates.
Regardless of these unknowns, you can increase your chance of a reply by sending a follow-up email for each job application. Hiring managers often appreciate follow-ups as further evidence that you want the job. (Some managers even use them as a filter device, waiting and then first reviewing applicants who’ve sent more than one message.) But it’s equally important that your follow-up does not come off as pushy or inconsiderate of the manager’s time.
The following tips and examples will help you craft a concise follow-up email that makes the right impression on employers.
Leverage Your Connections
If you don’t hear back within a week of applying, consider first networking to gain insight into the company’s hiring process. For instance, if one of your LinkedIn connections works there, you might contact them for advice on sending a response or information on where the company is in terms of evaluating applicants.
Message the Hiring Manager Directly
When possible, engage directly with the person evaluating applicants. You’re more likely to get a response than with a general inbox or the human resources team. In some cases, you can figure out who the hiring manager is by looking at the company’s website or LinkedIn.
Sample Email 1
The message below works because it’s brief and mindful of the hiring manager’s busy schedule. By showing knowledge of the company’s reputation and genuine interest in the position, the candidate can inspire the manager to call for an interview.
Hello Mr. Tyrone Jackson,
Recently I applied for the technical project manager position with your company. You’re likely busy reviewing other applicants, but I wanted to follow up on a possible timeline for when you may have a decision on my application.
I’d love to discuss how my project management skills can help Luminous Software Corp. maintain its reputation as a leading software innovator. Please feel free to contact me by phone or email for any additional information on my background and experience. I appreciate your time and consideration and hope to hear from you soon.
Sincerely,
Yaling Zhang
(555) 456-7890
Sample Email 2
The following email is effective because it highlights the candidate’s skill set and knowledge of Fidelity without being long-winded.
Dear Ms. Taylor,
I applied for your firm’s investment research internship program last week. You are likely busy reviewing other candidates, but I wanted to inquire when you think you may reach a decision on my application.
As a recent finance graduate, I have a passion for investment strategy and financial analysis. Fidelity’s prestigious reputation in investment banking draws me to this internship, and I can make valuable contributions to your team by evaluating portfolios and investment opportunities.
Please let me know if you require any more information on my background or academic achievements. I’m available by phone or email at your earliest convenience. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Amar Singh
(555) 456-7890
Job Application Follow-Up Frequently Asked Questions
When should I send my follow-up message?-
Between one and two weeks after sending your application. Regardless of how excited you are about the opportunity, be patient and give the hiring manager time to review your credentials. Following up too soon can make you look overeager or unprofessional.
How long should my follow-up email be?-
No more than 150 words. A concise follow-up will improve your chances of making a strong impression. While you may be tempted to write a longer letter and further sell yourself to the hiring manager, this is the wrong approach in most cases. Hiring managers are busy, and a long email will indicate you aren’t conscious of their time.
How many follow-ups do I send for each application?-
No more than two. If you haven’t received a response to your first follow-up, you may not want to reach out again, as this isn’t a positive sign that the company wants to interview you. If you choose to send a second email, do so only after three weeks have passed since you first applied for the job.
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