How to Follow Up After a Job Application (Templates Included)
Silence after applying? Learn when and how to follow up professionally, with email templates that actually get responses from hiring managers.
The Art of the Follow-Up
You've submitted a great application and... nothing. Silence. It's frustrating, but don't assume the worst. Hiring managers are busy, and your follow-up could be the nudge that gets your resume reviewed.
When to Follow Up
The Timeline
| Stage | Wait Time | Action |
|---|---|---|
| After applying | 1-2 weeks | Send follow-up email |
| After interview | 24-48 hours | Send thank-you note |
| After thank-you | 1 week | Check on status |
| After final interview | 1 week | Follow up on decision |
Exceptions
- If job posting has a deadline, wait until after it passes
- If they gave you a specific timeline, respect it
- If the posting says "no calls," stick to email
Follow-Up Email Templates
Template 1: After Online Application
Subject: Following Up - [Job Title] Application - [Your Name]---
Dear [Hiring Manager's Name],
I recently submitted my application for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name] and wanted to express my continued interest in the opportunity.
With my background in [relevant experience], I'm excited about the possibility of contributing to [specific company initiative or goal]. I'm particularly drawn to [something specific about the company or role].
I'd welcome the opportunity to discuss how my experience with [specific skill/achievement] could benefit your team. Please let me know if you need any additional information from me.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Best regards, [Your Name] [Phone Number] [LinkedIn URL]
---
Template 2: When You Have a Referral
Subject: [Referral Name] Suggested I Reach Out - [Job Title] Position---
Dear [Hiring Manager's Name],
[Referral Name] suggested I reach out regarding the [Job Title] position. After learning more about [Company Name]'s work in [area], I submitted my application last week and wanted to follow up.
[Referral Name] mentioned that your team is focused on [specific challenge or project]. In my current role at [Company], I've [relevant achievement that addresses that challenge].
I'd love to discuss how my experience could contribute to your team's goals. Would you have 15 minutes for a brief conversation?
Best regards, [Your Name]
---
Template 3: After No Response to First Follow-Up
Subject: Re: [Job Title] Application - Quick Check-In---
Dear [Hiring Manager's Name],
I wanted to check in one more time regarding the [Job Title] position. I understand how busy hiring processes can be, and I remain very interested in this opportunity.
If the position has been filled or you've decided to move forward with other candidates, I'd appreciate a quick update so I can adjust my job search accordingly.
If you're still in the selection process, I'm happy to provide any additional information that would be helpful.
Thank you for your consideration.
Best regards, [Your Name]
---
Post-Interview Follow-Up
Thank-You Email (Send within 24 hours)
Subject: Thank You - [Job Title] Interview---
Dear [Interviewer's Name],
Thank you for taking the time to meet with me today about the [Job Title] position. I enjoyed learning more about [specific topic discussed] and [Company Name]'s approach to [relevant area].
Our conversation reinforced my excitement about this opportunity. I was particularly intrigued by [specific project or challenge mentioned], and I'm confident my experience with [relevant skill] would allow me to contribute quickly.
Please don't hesitate to reach out if you need any additional information. I look forward to hearing about next steps.
Best regards, [Your Name]
---
Follow-Up Best Practices
Do:
- Research first - Find the hiring manager's name if possible
- Be specific - Reference the job title and when you applied
- Add value - Mention something relevant (company news, new qualification)
- Keep it brief - 3-4 short paragraphs maximum
- Proofread carefully - Errors undermine your candidacy
Don't:
- Be pushy - One follow-up per stage is enough
- Apologize - "Sorry to bother you" weakens your message
- Demand answers - Stay professional and patient
- Send generic messages - Personalization matters
- Follow up too soon - Give them time to review applications
Finding the Right Contact
Where to Look:
1. Job posting - Sometimes includes hiring manager name 2. LinkedIn - Search for recruiters or team leads at the company 3. Company website - Check team pages 4. Mutual connections - Ask for introductionsIf You Can't Find a Name:
- "Dear Hiring Manager" or "Dear [Department] Team"
- Try reaching out to the company's general recruiting email
What If You Still Don't Hear Back?
After two well-spaced follow-ups with no response:
- Move on mentally (but don't withdraw your application)
- Continue applying to other positions
- Sometimes you'll hear back months later
The Reality Check
Not hearing back doesn't always mean rejection:- Companies get hundreds of applications
- Hiring processes get delayed
- Positions get put on hold
- Internal candidates may be considered first
Follow-Up Tracking System
Stay organized with a simple spreadsheet:
| Company | Role | Applied | Follow-Up 1 | Response | Follow-Up 2 | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| TechCo | PM | 1/5 | 1/19 | None | 1/26 | Pending |
| StartupX | Eng | 1/8 | 1/22 | Interview! | - | Interview 2/1 |
The Bottom Line
Following up professionally shows initiative and genuine interest. It can be the difference between your resume getting lost in the pile and landing on the hiring manager's desk.
Pro tip: A strong, ATS-optimized resume gives you more confidence when following up. Our AI resume builder helps you create applications worth advocating for.