The Power of the Follow Up: What to Do After Applying for a Job
You found a promising job, updated your resume, completed the application, and clicked submit.
Now what?
Waiting to hear back can be one of the most difficult parts of a job search. While following up cannot guarantee an interview, a thoughtful message can reinforce your interest, demonstrate professionalism, and help keep your application top of mind.
The key is knowing when to follow up, what to say, and when to move forward.
Give the Employer Time
Avoid following up immediately after submitting your application.
Hiring teams may need time to review applications, coordinate with managers, and determine which candidates they want to interview. Unless the job posting provides a specific timeline, consider waiting approximately one week before reaching out.
Before following up, review the job posting carefully. Some employers specifically ask candidates not to call or email about their applications. Always follow the instructions provided.
Find the Right Person to Contact
Whenever possible, send your follow up to the recruiter or hiring manager responsible for the position.
You may find their information in:
The job posting
Your application confirmation
The company’s website
A recruiter’s previous email
The company’s LinkedIn page
If you applied through a staffing agency, contact your recruiter directly. They may be able to provide an update, answer questions, or explain the next steps.
Avoid contacting several employees about the same application. One professional message to the appropriate person is usually enough.
Keep Your Message Short and Professional
A follow up email should be easy to read and respectful of the recipient’s time.
Include:
Your name
The position title
The date you applied
A brief expression of continued interest
One or two qualifications that make you a strong candidate
A polite request for an update
Your contact information
Here is an example:
Subject: Follow Up on [Position Title] Application
Hello [Name],
I recently applied for the [Position Title] position and wanted to express my continued interest in the opportunity. My experience in [relevant skill or industry] aligns well with the role, and I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how I could contribute to your team.
Please let me know if I can provide any additional information. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Best,
[Your Name]
[Phone Number]
[Email Address]
Your message does not need to repeat everything in your resume. Its purpose is simply to remind the employer of your application and reinforce your interest.
Follow Up After an Interview
Following up is also important after a job interview.
Send a thank you message within 24 hours. Thank the interviewer for their time, mention something specific from the conversation, and briefly restate your interest in the position.
For example:
Subject: Thank You [Position Title] Interview
Hello [Name],
Thank you for taking the time to speak with me about the [Position Title] opportunity. I enjoyed learning more about [specific topic discussed] and how the position supports the team.
Our conversation strengthened my interest in the role, and I believe my experience in [relevant skill] would allow me to make a positive contribution. Please let me know if you need any additional information.
Best,
[Your Name]
If the interviewer provided a decision timeline, wait until that date has passed before requesting another update.
Do Not Follow Up Too Often
There is a difference between showing interest and overwhelming the employer.
Repeated calls, daily emails, or messages through several platforms can work against you. If you send a follow up and do not receive a response, wait at least another week before sending one final message.
After that, continue your job search.
A lack of response does not always mean you were unqualified. The position may have been placed on hold, filled internally, changed, or received more applications than the employer could personally answer.
Remain professional and leave the door open for future opportunities.
Continue Applying While You Wait
Do not pause your entire job search while waiting for one employer.
Even if an interview went well, continue exploring other opportunities until you have accepted a written job offer.
While waiting, you can:
Apply for other relevant positions
Update your resume
Practice interview questions
Connect with recruiters
Strengthen your LinkedIn profile
Research potential employers
Develop a new skill
Following up should be one part of your job search strategy, not the only next step.
Keep Track of Your Applications
When applying for several positions, details can become difficult to remember.
Create a simple spreadsheet or document that tracks:
Company name
Position title
Date submitted
Where you found the opening
Recruiter or hiring manager
Follow up date
Interview dates
Current status
Notes and next steps
Staying organized can prevent you from following up too soon, contacting the wrong person, or forgetting an important conversation.
Be Prepared for a Response
A follow up may lead to a phone call or interview invitation, so be ready.
Review the job description, research the employer, and keep notes about why the position interests you. Make sure your voicemail is professional and check your email regularly, including your spam folder.
Respond promptly when an employer or recruiter contacts you. Clear and timely communication can make a strong impression throughout the hiring process.
The Bottom Line
Following up after applying for a job can demonstrate initiative, professionalism, and genuine interest.
Give the employer time, contact the appropriate person, and keep your message brief. If you do not receive a response, remain professional and continue moving forward.
Your follow up may not always lead to an interview, but it can help you stand out and build stronger job search habits.
At Riverway Business Services, we connect talented job seekers with temporary, contract, temp to hire, and direct hire opportunities across a variety of industries.
Our recruiters are here to provide guidance, share updates, and help you take the next step in your career.
Ready to explore your next opportunity?
View our current openings:
riverway.jobs/jobs
Phone: 713-664-5900
Website: www.riverway.jobs
Email: contact@riverway.jobs