How to Follow Up After a Job Application

How to check in professionally and improve your chances of landing an interview.

After submitting a job application, waiting to hear back can feel like the hardest part. You have done the work to craft a strong resume and cover letter, but what happens next?

Following up on your job application can demonstrate enthusiasm, initiative, and strong communication skills if you do it the right way. Here’s how to approach it professionally and make a positive impression without overstepping.

Why Following Up Matters

Recruiters and hiring managers often review dozens, or even hundreds, of applications. Following up helps you stand out from the crowd, reinforce your interest in the position, and ensure your application has not been overlooked.

A well-timed, polite message shows that you are proactive and genuinely keen to contribute to the business.

When to Follow Up

Timing is key. Give the employer enough time to review applications before you reach out.

• If the job ad includes a closing date: Wait about five to seven days after that date before contacting the company.
• If there is no closing date: A good rule of thumb is to wait around one to two weeks after submitting your application.

Following up too early can appear impatient, but leaving it too long can make your interest seem lukewarm.

How to Follow Up

There are a few ways you can follow up, depending on how you applied.

1. By Email

Email is the most professional and effective way to follow up. Keep your message short, polite, and specific.

Example email:

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

Hi [Hiring Manager’s Name],

I hope you’re well. I recently applied for the [Job Title] position and wanted to follow up to confirm that my application was received. I remain very interested in the opportunity to contribute to [Company Name] and would love to discuss how my [skills/experience] align with the role.

Please let me know if there is any further information I can provide.

Kind regards,
[Your Name]
[Your Contact Details]

2. By LinkedIn

If you know who the hiring manager or recruiter is, you can also send a short LinkedIn message to introduce yourself and express your interest. Keep it conversational and professional.

Example message:

Hi [Name], I have recently applied for the [Job Title] position with [Company Name] and wanted to briefly introduce myself. I am very interested in the opportunity and would love to learn more about the role if possible.

3. By Phone

A polite phone call can be appropriate for some roles, particularly in smaller businesses or industries where communication is more direct. Keep it brief and courteous.

Example:

“Hi, my name is [Your Name]. I recently applied for the [Job Title] position and just wanted to check if my application was received and whether there is an update on the process.”

If the person you speak to is busy, offer to send an email instead.

What to Say (and What Not to Say)

Do:

• Sound polite, confident, and professional.
• Reiterate your interest in the role.
• Mention one or two key strengths that make you a great fit.
• Thank the recruiter or employer for their time.

Avoid:

• Asking about salary or benefits at this stage.
• Following up repeatedly. (One or two messages are enough unless invited to check back later.)
• Sounding impatient or demanding.

What to Expect When Following Up

In today’s digital job market, hiring teams often receive hundreds of applications for a single role. With so many candidates to review, it can take time for recruiters and managers to respond, even when they are interested in your application.

A polite follow-up shows that you are engaged, professional, and genuinely interested in the opportunity. It also helps keep your name top of mind amid a high number of applications.

If you have not received a reply after your first follow-up, it is acceptable to send one more brief message around a week later to check in again. Keep it courteous and simple, for example:

Hi [Name], I just wanted to follow up once more regarding my application for the [Job Title] position. I remain very interested in the opportunity and appreciate the time you are taking to review applications.

If you still do not hear back after that second message, do not take it personally. Recruitment processes vary in speed and communication style, and many employers simply cannot respond to every applicant.

Most importantly, do not put all your eggs in one basket. Keep applying for other roles, building connections, and exploring new opportunities. The right position will come along, and maintaining momentum is key to finding it.

How to Use This in Your Job Search

Following up shows employers that you are engaged, motivated, and serious about the opportunity. Even if you do not land that particular role, leaving a positive impression could lead to future opportunities with the same company.

Approach your follow-up as an extension of your personal brand: professional, confident, and considerate.

If you are currently job hunting, explore the latest opportunities on our Fuse Recruitment Jobs Page or visit our Advice Hub for more practical career tips.