You should write a follow up email for a job application, if you have not heard anything after submitting your job application and have given the employer enough time to respond.
Don't take it personally if you haven't heard back about a job you've applied for; the reasons could have nothing to do with you. Every company's hiring process is unique, and things are moving a little more slowly during the pandemic.
Nevertheless, if you haven't heard back from a employer within a reasonable time frame, it's a good idea to send a quick follow-up email to inquire about the status of your job application.
Let's look at how to write a follow-up email, including when to follow up, sample follow-up emails, and a template to create your own.
There is no hard and fast rule, but generally, no sooner than a week after submitting your resume. You want to allow enough time for the employer to read and respond to your application. Two weeks and still no response? You must definitely follow up now.
Employers typically prefer to receive this type of message via email because it allows them to keep a record of your contact and respond quickly. However, if you need an even faster response (say, because you know they are supposed to make a hiring decision soon), you can try calling the employer.
Include the title of the job you're applying for as well as your name in the subject line. This allows the employer to quickly determine the subject of the email. Few examples of subject line for job application email:
Because the recipient has not yet reviewed your application materials, this could be their first impression of you. Maintain a professional tone in your email. Begin the letter with the name of the hiring manager or a polite salutation. Thank them for considering you for the specific position.
Recruiters are busy people, so if you send them a long email, they may miss important information or, worse, ignore it because they don't have time. This is why it's critical to strike a balance between including important information and keeping your email brief and concise. This allows the recruiter to quickly scan your email and determine how they can assist you.
Remind the recruiter briefly of why you are a good fit for the job. If you have any new information to share (such as a new certification), which is useful in the new job.
When you have any questions about the job or the application process, please leave them at the bottom of the email.
The purpose of this email is to get you an interview, so make that your call to action. Inform them that you are interested in interviewing and provide information on how and when they can reach you.
Attach the materials that you included with your original job application to make it easier for the hiring manager to review your application. Inform them that the documents are attached.
Before sending any email for a job application, proofread your email and edit it for any necessary changes. Check for spelling and grammar mistakes first in email subject as well as email body, then for formatting and structure aspects.
Here are word-for-word email samples you can use right away. Use them in sending email for a job application.
Hi [Nick],
I recently applied for the position of [Java Developer]. I understand you're probably overloaded with applications, but I wanted to check in to see if you had any updates on your decision timeline.
I'm very excited about the opportunity to work at [CTS], and I believe that my skills, specifically [Java, Springboot], would make me an excellent fit.
I've attached my application materials for your convenience. Please let me know if you require any further information. I can be reached at [mobile number xxx-xxx-xxxx] or [firstname.lastname@gmail.com]. I eagerly await your response.
Best Regards,
[Your name]
Hi [Inna],
I hope everything is well with you. I applied for the Angular developer position advertised in the Times Union earlier this month and submitted my resume.
I am very interested in working at [TCS] and believe that my skills, particularly my extensive Angular experience at [CTS] Company, would be a good fit for this job position.
If needed, I would be happy to resend my resume or provide any additional information you may require about my candidacy. Please contact me at xxx-xxx-xxxx or firstname.lastname@gmail.com. I eagerly await your response.
Regards,
[Your name]
Hi [Neel],
I applied for the position of [DevOps] last week. I would appreciate it if you could provide me with your decision timeline.
I am very excited about the prospect of joining your DevOps team and utilizing my [DevOps] skills and experience to assist you [in setting up the CI-CD pipeline].
Kindly let me know if you require any additional information about my job application. I look forward to hearing from you.
Best,
[Your name]
Let me summarise the tips to help you write a follow-up email for a job application:
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