What is a Job Application Follow Up Email?

A job application follow-up email is a formal communication sent to an employer or hiring manager after you’ve submitted a job application but haven’t heard back within a reasonable timeframe. This email serves several purposes:

  1. Express Continued Interest: It reiterates your enthusiasm for the role and the company.
  2. Inquire About the Status: The email allows you to respectfully ask about the status of your application or the hiring process timeline.
  3. Reinforce Your Candidacy: A well-timed follow-up email keeps your application at the top of the employer’s mind and highlights your proactive approach.
  4. Clarify Any Uncertainty: If there are questions about the application process, such as missing documents or interview schedules, the follow-up email provides an opportunity to address them.

Importance of a Job Application Follow Up Email

Sending a follow-up email after submitting a job application is a specialized and courteous step that can benefit your candidacy in several ways:

  1. Demonstrates Enthusiasm: Employers appreciate candidates who are genuinely interested in their company and the role. A follow-up email shows you are serious about the opportunity and eager to proceed with the process.
  2. Shows Proactivity: Employers often value candidates who take initiative. Following up signals that you are proactive, organized, and invested in your job search.
  3. Increases Your Visibility: Hiring teams receive numerous applications, and it’s easy for one to get lost in the shuffle. A follow-up email keeps you top of mind and can prompt the employer to revisit your application.
  4. Clarifies Expectations: If you’re unsure about the next steps in the hiring process or the timeline for decisions, a follow-up email can provide clarity and help you plan your next steps.
  5. Demonstrates Professionalism: Properly timing and crafting a professional follow-up email reflects well on your communication skills and attention to detail.

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When to Send a Job Application Follow Up Email

Timing is crucial when it comes to sending a follow-up email. Sending one too early may come across as intolerant, while waiting too long can make it seem like you’ve moved on. Here are some guidelines on when to send your follow-up email:

  1. After 1-2 Weeks: Generally, you should wait about 7 to 14 days after submitting your job application before sending a follow-up email. This gives the employer time to review applications without feeling pressured.
  2. After the Application Deadline: If the job posting includes a closing date, wait at least a week after the deadline before following up. Employers may take time to review all candidates once the request window closes.
  3. After an Interview: If you’ve already had an interview, send a thank-you email within 24 hours, but a separate follow-up email after the interview should be sent only if you haven’t received any feedback within the timeframe the employer provided.
  4. When Additional Information is Required: If the job application process requests supporting documents (such as references or portfolios) that you didn’t initially provide, sending a follow-up email with this additional information is appropriate.

How to Write a Job Application Follow Up Email

Crafting an effective job application follow-up email requires skill, politeness, and conciseness. Below is a step-by-step guide to help you write a successful follow-up email:

Subject Line

Make the subject line clear and concise. Examples include:

  • 'Follow Up on [Job Title] Application'
  • 'Re: Application for [Job Title] – [Your Name]'
  • 'Inquiry Regarding Application Status – [Job Title]'

Polite Greeting

Polite Greeting

  • 'Dear [Hiring Manager's Name],'
  • 'Hello [Hiring Manager's Name],'

If you don’t have the hiring manager’s name, you can use a more general greeting:

  • 'Dear Hiring Team,'

Express Gratitude
Begin the email by thanking the employer for the opportunity to apply for the role. For example:

  • 'Thank you for considering my application for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name].'

Mention the Role and Application Date
Briefly remind them of the position you applied for and when you submitted your application:

  • 'I recently applied for the [Job Title] role, which I submitted on [Date].'

Reiterate Your Interest
Use this opportunity to express your continued enthusiasm for the role and the company:

  • 'I remain very excited about the opportunity to contribute to [Company Name] and believe my skills in [specific skills] would be an asset to your team.'

Inquire Politely About the Status
Respectfully ask for an update on the status of your application:

  • 'I would appreciate any updates you could provide regarding my application status or the next steps in the hiring process.'

Offer Additional Information
If needed, offer to provide any additional information:

  • 'Please let me know if there is any additional information I can provide to support my application.'

Close on a Positive Note
End with a polite closing that expresses your appreciation for their time:

  • 'Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you.'

Signature
Conclude the email with a professional sign-off:

  • 'Sincerely, [Your Full Name]'

Sample Job Application Follow Up Email Template

Subject: Follow Up on [Job Title] Application – [Your Name]

Dear [Hiring Manager's Name],

I hope you’re doing well. I wanted to touch base regarding my application for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name], which I submitted on [Application Date]. I remain very interested in the role and am eager to bring my skills and experience to your team.

Understanding that these processes can take time, I would be grateful for any updates you can share about the status of my application or the next steps. My background in [mention specific skills or experience] makes me enthusiastic about contributing to [Company Name]'s goals.

If there’s any further information you need from me, please let me know. Thank you for considering my application, and I look forward to your response.
Sincerely,
[Your Full Name]
[Your Contact Information]

Tips for Writing an Effective Job Application Follow Up Email

  1. Keep It Professional: Maintain a respectful and polite tone throughout the email. Avoid being pushy or impatient.
  2. Be Concise: Keep your message brief and to the point. Employers receive numerous emails, so respect their time.
  3. Proofread: Ensure your email is free from grammatical or spelling errors. A well-written email reflects your attention to detail and professionalism.
  4. Personalize It: Customize the email by including the hiring manager’s name and referencing specific details about the job or your application.
  5. Follow Up Once: Sending too many follow-up emails can come across as overly persistent. If you don’t receive a response, consider the possibility that the position may have been filled or that the company is still in the decision-making process.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  1. Being Too Pushy: Avoid pressuring the employer for an immediate response. Be polite and patient in your request.
  2. Following Up Too Soon: Sending a follow-up email just a few days after applying can make you appear impatient. Wait at least one to two weeks before following up.
  3. Forgetting to Include Essential Information:Make sure to mention the job title, the date you applied, and any relevant details that will help the employer recall your application.
  4. Overly Long Emails: Keep your email concise. Long-winded messages may be overlooked or skimmed through.

Conclusion

A well-crafted job application follow-up email can make a positive impression on a potential employer, showcasing your professionalism, enthusiasm, and dedication. By following up politely and appropriately, you increase your chances of standing out in a competitive job market. Make sure your email is concise, personalized, and free of errors, and be patient as you await a response.

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