How do I follow up on the status of my job application?

You've been applying for jobs nonstop, and you finally found a role you'd be perfect for. The only problem: you haven't heard from them since turning in your application!

Don't panic! Know when and how to follow up so you can get an answer on the status of your application.

Before you check in on your job application, think about whether it's appropriate to reach out! You want to consider:

• whether the job description mentions anything about following up.

• whether you've given them enough time to look at your application.

• how you're going to contact the company.

You'll want to consider all of these things before you check in on your job application.

You'll want to brush up on the job description, the company, and your application before you follow up! Make sure you remember which company you are applying for and what job you want.

It's easy to forget those things if you're applying to a lot of jobs, so don't embarrass yourself by getting the details wrong.

Figure out who you need to talk to!

You need to reach out to someone, so figure this out early! This may be in the job solicitation, or it may be in an email you receive after sending your application. If you aren't sure, address the hiring manager. Use their name if you can find it, but if not, address them by their title.

Timing is cruciaI!

It's important to show your interest, but you have to give the decision makers time to review your application. It's recommended you wait a week or two before following up.

This gives the hiring manager an appropriate amount of time to review your application.

Don't call them if they prefer using email, and don't email if they would prefer to have a call. There are several ways to follow up on an application, and it depends on the company. Your options are:

• email

• call

• ask in person

• social media/job boards (LinkedIn, Indeed)

Companies may list how they prefer to be contacted. It could be in the job description or confirmation email. Following instructions well is a good way to set a great first impression. If you turned in your application in person, ask how you can follow up! If you turned it in online, email is preferred.

There are a few things you should say when you're following up:

• Introduce yourself.

• Tell them about the job you're applying for and why you're interested.

• Explain why you're the right person.

• Thank them for their time.

Make sure to include all of these things, but be brief with your message!

Hiring managers may have a lot of applications to go through. You want to show your interest and explain why you're a great fit for the job.

Here's an example of what you could say when reaching out about a job application. Even if you aren't sending an email, write out what you're going to say before you call or go in person!

Hi Gwen,

My name is Jeffery, and I recently applied for the IT Admin Specialist position and wanted to check in on the status of my application. I am excited about BirdDog's commitment to sustainable practices in tech. My previous experience as an IT Help Desk Associate and my Bachelor's in Computer Science make me a great fit for this role.

Please let me know if there is anything I can provide to help with the hiring process. I look forward to hearing from you.

Thank you for your time,

Jeff

Carefully review the email below, and please answer if there are any problems in the email:

Dear Hiring Manager,

My name is Sara, and I recently applied for the Customer Care position and wanted to check in on the status of my application. I am moved by CelPrep's mission to help vulnerable communities have access to their learning platform.

Please let me know if there is anything I can provide to help with the hiring process. I look forward to hearing from you.

Thank you for your time,

Jen

It's good to remember that just because you followed up, doesn't mean you'll get a timely response. You may still not hear back, or get an automated response that they're "still reviewing applications."

There are many reasons why your application may have gotten overlooked or quietly rejected. Don't get discouraged during the job search! Use this time to improve your relevant skills, work on improving your resume, and continue applying for jobs you're interested in.

Remember that the follow up email is to gently remind the company who you are and why you're a great fit for the role. You should not treat it lilke a second job application.

Now that you know how to follow up on a job application, it's time to do it!