Should You Follow up on a Job Application
By Interview,
Table of contents

In this age of endless scrolling and instant messages, taking an extra step to stand out can feel like navigating a minefield. You’ve sent off your job application and then comes the big question: To follow up or not to follow up?

The Basics of Following Up

Firstly, following up on a job application can be a double-edged sword. On one hand, it shows you’re interested and active. On the other hand, there’s a fine line between showing interest and coming off as pushy.

Many hiring managers appreciate the follow-up. It demonstrates hope and can set you apart from other candidates who simply wait to be contacted. However, there’s a group of employers who might find this behavior clingy or irritating(especially if done over the phone). They might even throw out your application just because you decided to nudge them.

When to Follow Up

The timing of your follow-up is crucial. It’s generally not advisable to contact the employer immediately after submitting the application. Give them some time. A good rule of thumb is to wait for about two weeks before touching base. This waiting period respects the employer’s time to process applications and shows you’re mindful of their schedule.

How to Follow Up

If you decide to proceed with following up, doing so via email is the way to go these days. It’s less pushy and provides the employer with the flexibility to respond at their convenience. Moreover, drafting a professional, clear, and respectful message showcasing your enthusiasm could be beneficial. It’s a tiny effort that might just tip scales in your favor.

“Patience, persistence and perspiration make an unbeatable combination for success.”

– Napoleon Hill

But, Be Prepared for Any Outcome

It’s vital to prepare yourself for any response— or lack thereof. Sometimes, no matter how perfectly you time or craft your follow-up, it won’t change the outcome of your application. It’s not uncommon for job seekers to hear nothing back, or in some scenarios, a follow-up might even lead to a negative response. The job market is changeable, and sometimes, your follow-up might not bring out the reaction you were hoping for.

The Greater Picture

Keep in mind, your worth is not determined by a single job application or the response it generates. The job hunt is, more often than not, a numbers game. Pouring your energy into applying for more positions instead of fixating on one might be a more effective strategy.

Conclusion

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to whether you should follow up on a job application. It very much depends on the company culture, the job market, and, honestly, a bit of luck. If you choose to follow up, ensure it’s thoughtful and professional, keeping in mind the many possible outcomes. And remember, sometimes the lack of response is an answer in itself. In the end, determination in your job search, not just in following up, is what’s truly going to pay off.

And hey, don’t forget—We’ve all been there. Waiting anxiously for a response, contemplating a follow-up. It’s all part of the job hunting process, and regardless of the outcome, it’s a learning curve on the path to your next great opportunity. Keep it up, and good luck!

Piotr Gacon
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