How to Follow Up on a Job Application (the Right Way)
A step-by-step guide to following up after applying without being pushy or ignored
Updated on:
September 25, 2025
September 25, 2025
September 25, 2025
Overview:
Why following up matters
Why following up matters
Why following up matters
Submitting an application is just the beginning of the hiring process. Companies often receive hundreds of resumes for a single opening. Even strong candidates risk getting buried in applicant tracking systems (ATS) or overlooked if the hiring manager is overwhelmed.
This is where a well-timed follow-up can make a real difference. A thoughtful message shows persistence, enthusiasm, and professionalism. It signals to the employer that you genuinely want the role and are proactive enough to take the extra step. In fact, many recruiters acknowledge that follow-ups help them remember specific candidates who might otherwise blend into the crowd.
On the other hand, a poorly executed follow-up can do damage. If you appear impatient, careless, or overly aggressive, you can inadvertently weaken your chances. The key is balance: firm but respectful persistence.
In today’s competitive market, where LinkedIn job postings can attract thousands of applicants in days, standing out through a follow-up is not optional it’s strategic.
Submitting an application is just the beginning of the hiring process. Companies often receive hundreds of resumes for a single opening. Even strong candidates risk getting buried in applicant tracking systems (ATS) or overlooked if the hiring manager is overwhelmed.
This is where a well-timed follow-up can make a real difference. A thoughtful message shows persistence, enthusiasm, and professionalism. It signals to the employer that you genuinely want the role and are proactive enough to take the extra step. In fact, many recruiters acknowledge that follow-ups help them remember specific candidates who might otherwise blend into the crowd.
On the other hand, a poorly executed follow-up can do damage. If you appear impatient, careless, or overly aggressive, you can inadvertently weaken your chances. The key is balance: firm but respectful persistence.
In today’s competitive market, where LinkedIn job postings can attract thousands of applicants in days, standing out through a follow-up is not optional it’s strategic.
Submitting an application is just the beginning of the hiring process. Companies often receive hundreds of resumes for a single opening. Even strong candidates risk getting buried in applicant tracking systems (ATS) or overlooked if the hiring manager is overwhelmed.
This is where a well-timed follow-up can make a real difference. A thoughtful message shows persistence, enthusiasm, and professionalism. It signals to the employer that you genuinely want the role and are proactive enough to take the extra step. In fact, many recruiters acknowledge that follow-ups help them remember specific candidates who might otherwise blend into the crowd.
On the other hand, a poorly executed follow-up can do damage. If you appear impatient, careless, or overly aggressive, you can inadvertently weaken your chances. The key is balance: firm but respectful persistence.
In today’s competitive market, where LinkedIn job postings can attract thousands of applicants in days, standing out through a follow-up is not optional it’s strategic.
Step 1: Wait the right amount of time
Step 1: Wait the right amount of time
Step 1: Wait the right amount of time
The first mistake many candidates make is rushing to follow up too soon. Recruiters need breathing room to review applications. Sending a message within two or three days of applying makes you seem impatient, not proactive.
The general guideline is to wait seven to fourteen days after submitting your application. If the job description included a timeline (“We expect to contact shortlisted candidates within two weeks”), respect that timeframe before reaching out.
If you’ve completed an interview, the rules are different. In that case, send a thank-you message within 24 hours. This is not a “follow-up” so much as an expression of gratitude that doubles as a reminder of your interest.
Recruiters on Reddit often emphasize that applicants who follow up politely after a week stand out positively, while those who spam daily messages are quickly dismissed. This echoes advice from HR professionals writing in Harvard Business Review, who stress that patience signals maturity, while excessive urgency signals poor judgment.
For candidates seeking their very first role, the wait can feel unbearable. But learning patience is part of the process. Our detailed guide on how to make a resume for your first job highlights the importance of preparation while waiting building skills, tailoring documents, and staying engaged. The same principle applies here: waiting time is never wasted if you’re improving your profile in the meantime.
The first mistake many candidates make is rushing to follow up too soon. Recruiters need breathing room to review applications. Sending a message within two or three days of applying makes you seem impatient, not proactive.
The general guideline is to wait seven to fourteen days after submitting your application. If the job description included a timeline (“We expect to contact shortlisted candidates within two weeks”), respect that timeframe before reaching out.
If you’ve completed an interview, the rules are different. In that case, send a thank-you message within 24 hours. This is not a “follow-up” so much as an expression of gratitude that doubles as a reminder of your interest.
Recruiters on Reddit often emphasize that applicants who follow up politely after a week stand out positively, while those who spam daily messages are quickly dismissed. This echoes advice from HR professionals writing in Harvard Business Review, who stress that patience signals maturity, while excessive urgency signals poor judgment.
For candidates seeking their very first role, the wait can feel unbearable. But learning patience is part of the process. Our detailed guide on how to make a resume for your first job highlights the importance of preparation while waiting building skills, tailoring documents, and staying engaged. The same principle applies here: waiting time is never wasted if you’re improving your profile in the meantime.
The first mistake many candidates make is rushing to follow up too soon. Recruiters need breathing room to review applications. Sending a message within two or three days of applying makes you seem impatient, not proactive.
The general guideline is to wait seven to fourteen days after submitting your application. If the job description included a timeline (“We expect to contact shortlisted candidates within two weeks”), respect that timeframe before reaching out.
If you’ve completed an interview, the rules are different. In that case, send a thank-you message within 24 hours. This is not a “follow-up” so much as an expression of gratitude that doubles as a reminder of your interest.
Recruiters on Reddit often emphasize that applicants who follow up politely after a week stand out positively, while those who spam daily messages are quickly dismissed. This echoes advice from HR professionals writing in Harvard Business Review, who stress that patience signals maturity, while excessive urgency signals poor judgment.
For candidates seeking their very first role, the wait can feel unbearable. But learning patience is part of the process. Our detailed guide on how to make a resume for your first job highlights the importance of preparation while waiting building skills, tailoring documents, and staying engaged. The same principle applies here: waiting time is never wasted if you’re improving your profile in the meantime.
Step 2: Identify the right person and contact channel
Step 2: Identify the right person and contact channel
Step 2: Identify the right person and contact channel
The next step is ensuring your message actually reaches someone who can help. Too often, candidates send emails to generic inboxes like “info@company.com,” which rarely get read. Instead, target either the hiring manager, the recruiter handling the role, or the department head.
Start with the job description: sometimes the recruiter’s name is included. If not, LinkedIn is your ally. Search the company page, look for recruiters, HR staff, or team leads with job titles tied to hiring. If the position is, for instance, a “Digital Marketing Associate,” identify the Marketing Director or a recruiter for that division.
If a specific person isn’t available, a general but slightly tailored salutation (“Dear Marketing Hiring Team”) works better than “To whom it may concern.”
As for the communication channel, email is still the gold standard. It’s professional, leaves a record, and doesn’t feel intrusive. LinkedIn InMail can be effective if the recruiter is active on the platform, but it should not replace email. Phone calls are only recommended in smaller companies or industries where direct outreach is culturally acceptable.
Coursera’s career development experts note that personalized outreach on the correct channel increases the odds of your application being revisited by nearly 20%. This shows that simply identifying the right person is often half the battle.
The next step is ensuring your message actually reaches someone who can help. Too often, candidates send emails to generic inboxes like “info@company.com,” which rarely get read. Instead, target either the hiring manager, the recruiter handling the role, or the department head.
Start with the job description: sometimes the recruiter’s name is included. If not, LinkedIn is your ally. Search the company page, look for recruiters, HR staff, or team leads with job titles tied to hiring. If the position is, for instance, a “Digital Marketing Associate,” identify the Marketing Director or a recruiter for that division.
If a specific person isn’t available, a general but slightly tailored salutation (“Dear Marketing Hiring Team”) works better than “To whom it may concern.”
As for the communication channel, email is still the gold standard. It’s professional, leaves a record, and doesn’t feel intrusive. LinkedIn InMail can be effective if the recruiter is active on the platform, but it should not replace email. Phone calls are only recommended in smaller companies or industries where direct outreach is culturally acceptable.
Coursera’s career development experts note that personalized outreach on the correct channel increases the odds of your application being revisited by nearly 20%. This shows that simply identifying the right person is often half the battle.
The next step is ensuring your message actually reaches someone who can help. Too often, candidates send emails to generic inboxes like “info@company.com,” which rarely get read. Instead, target either the hiring manager, the recruiter handling the role, or the department head.
Start with the job description: sometimes the recruiter’s name is included. If not, LinkedIn is your ally. Search the company page, look for recruiters, HR staff, or team leads with job titles tied to hiring. If the position is, for instance, a “Digital Marketing Associate,” identify the Marketing Director or a recruiter for that division.
If a specific person isn’t available, a general but slightly tailored salutation (“Dear Marketing Hiring Team”) works better than “To whom it may concern.”
As for the communication channel, email is still the gold standard. It’s professional, leaves a record, and doesn’t feel intrusive. LinkedIn InMail can be effective if the recruiter is active on the platform, but it should not replace email. Phone calls are only recommended in smaller companies or industries where direct outreach is culturally acceptable.
Coursera’s career development experts note that personalized outreach on the correct channel increases the odds of your application being revisited by nearly 20%. This shows that simply identifying the right person is often half the battle.
💡
Never lose track of an application again. AutoApplier’s Chrome extension applies to jobs on LinkedIn automatically and reminds you to follow up at the perfect time.
Never lose track of an application again. AutoApplier’s Chrome extension applies to jobs on LinkedIn automatically and reminds you to follow up at the perfect time.
💡
Never lose track of an application again. AutoApplier’s Chrome extension applies to jobs on LinkedIn automatically and reminds you to follow up at the perfect time.
Step 3: Craft a concise, value-adding message
Step 3: Craft a concise, value-adding message
Step 3: Craft a concise, value-adding message
The most critical part of following up is crafting a message that achieves two things: reminding the employer of your application, and adding value by showing why you’re still an excellent fit.
A bloated, repetitive email is more likely to be ignored. Aim for 150 words or less. Start with a clear subject line “Follow-up: [Your Name] – [Job Title] application” works perfectly.
Open politely, remind them of when you applied, and then restate your enthusiasm. The key is not just saying “I’m still interested” but showing why. Briefly highlight a qualification or achievement relevant to the job. If you’ve completed a new certification or project since applying, include that.
Here’s an expanded template:
Subject: Follow-up: Jane Doe – UX Designer application
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I hope this message finds you well. On July 1 I submitted my application for the UX Designer role at [Company]. After reviewing your recent redesign case study, I became even more enthusiastic about the opportunity to contribute.
In my current role, I led a mobile app redesign that improved user retention by 18%. I believe this experience directly aligns with the priorities outlined in your posting. I’d love to bring this results-oriented approach to your team.
Could you kindly share whether there are any updates on the hiring process or next steps?
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Best regards,
Maria Rossi
janedoe@email.com | 919-555-8247
Notice the structure: polite, specific, professional, and brief. It’s the kind of email a recruiter can read in under a minute.
The most critical part of following up is crafting a message that achieves two things: reminding the employer of your application, and adding value by showing why you’re still an excellent fit.
A bloated, repetitive email is more likely to be ignored. Aim for 150 words or less. Start with a clear subject line “Follow-up: [Your Name] – [Job Title] application” works perfectly.
Open politely, remind them of when you applied, and then restate your enthusiasm. The key is not just saying “I’m still interested” but showing why. Briefly highlight a qualification or achievement relevant to the job. If you’ve completed a new certification or project since applying, include that.
Here’s an expanded template:
Subject: Follow-up: Jane Doe – UX Designer application
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I hope this message finds you well. On July 1 I submitted my application for the UX Designer role at [Company]. After reviewing your recent redesign case study, I became even more enthusiastic about the opportunity to contribute.
In my current role, I led a mobile app redesign that improved user retention by 18%. I believe this experience directly aligns with the priorities outlined in your posting. I’d love to bring this results-oriented approach to your team.
Could you kindly share whether there are any updates on the hiring process or next steps?
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Best regards,
Maria Rossi
janedoe@email.com | 919-555-8247
Notice the structure: polite, specific, professional, and brief. It’s the kind of email a recruiter can read in under a minute.
The most critical part of following up is crafting a message that achieves two things: reminding the employer of your application, and adding value by showing why you’re still an excellent fit.
A bloated, repetitive email is more likely to be ignored. Aim for 150 words or less. Start with a clear subject line “Follow-up: [Your Name] – [Job Title] application” works perfectly.
Open politely, remind them of when you applied, and then restate your enthusiasm. The key is not just saying “I’m still interested” but showing why. Briefly highlight a qualification or achievement relevant to the job. If you’ve completed a new certification or project since applying, include that.
Here’s an expanded template:
Subject: Follow-up: Jane Doe – UX Designer application
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I hope this message finds you well. On July 1 I submitted my application for the UX Designer role at [Company]. After reviewing your recent redesign case study, I became even more enthusiastic about the opportunity to contribute.
In my current role, I led a mobile app redesign that improved user retention by 18%. I believe this experience directly aligns with the priorities outlined in your posting. I’d love to bring this results-oriented approach to your team.
Could you kindly share whether there are any updates on the hiring process or next steps?
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Best regards,
Maria Rossi
janedoe@email.com | 919-555-8247
Notice the structure: polite, specific, professional, and brief. It’s the kind of email a recruiter can read in under a minute.
Step 4: Follow-up again but sparingly
Step 4: Follow-up again but sparingly
Step 4: Follow-up again but sparingly
Persistence is good, pestering is not. If you hear nothing after your first follow-up, wait at least five to seven business days before trying again.
Your second follow-up should acknowledge the first:
“I just wanted to follow up on the message I sent last week regarding my application for the [Position Title]. I remain very interested and would be grateful for any update on the process.”
After two polite attempts, it’s best to stop. Flooding someone’s inbox with repeated requests only weakens your chances. Recruiters on Glassdoor forums confirm that while one or two follow-ups are considered proactive, anything beyond that often gets flagged as desperation.
This is also where technology helps. Instead of trying to remember when you last emailed, tools like AutoApplier can track the applications it submits for you, so you know when it’s time to follow up again ensuring you stay consistent without crossing the line into excessive.
Persistence is good, pestering is not. If you hear nothing after your first follow-up, wait at least five to seven business days before trying again.
Your second follow-up should acknowledge the first:
“I just wanted to follow up on the message I sent last week regarding my application for the [Position Title]. I remain very interested and would be grateful for any update on the process.”
After two polite attempts, it’s best to stop. Flooding someone’s inbox with repeated requests only weakens your chances. Recruiters on Glassdoor forums confirm that while one or two follow-ups are considered proactive, anything beyond that often gets flagged as desperation.
This is also where technology helps. Instead of trying to remember when you last emailed, tools like AutoApplier can track the applications it submits for you, so you know when it’s time to follow up again ensuring you stay consistent without crossing the line into excessive.
Persistence is good, pestering is not. If you hear nothing after your first follow-up, wait at least five to seven business days before trying again.
Your second follow-up should acknowledge the first:
“I just wanted to follow up on the message I sent last week regarding my application for the [Position Title]. I remain very interested and would be grateful for any update on the process.”
After two polite attempts, it’s best to stop. Flooding someone’s inbox with repeated requests only weakens your chances. Recruiters on Glassdoor forums confirm that while one or two follow-ups are considered proactive, anything beyond that often gets flagged as desperation.
This is also where technology helps. Instead of trying to remember when you last emailed, tools like AutoApplier can track the applications it submits for you, so you know when it’s time to follow up again ensuring you stay consistent without crossing the line into excessive.
Step 5: What to do after you get a response
Step 5: What to do after you get a response
Step 5: What to do after you get a response
The way you respond once the company replies is just as important as the follow-up itself.
If they invite you for an interview, reply quickly, thank them, and confirm your availability. Include a note of enthusiasm for the conversation.
If they indicate the process is still ongoing, acknowledge their update and ask (politely) when you might expect further communication.
If they reject your application, stay gracious. A short “thank you for your time and consideration, I hope to be considered for future opportunities” can leave a lasting positive impression. Sometimes, candidates are later reconsidered when another position opens.
At this stage, tone and professionalism count more than anything. Even in rejection, you are building a reputation. A recruiter who remembers you as polite and engaged may think of you for the next role.
The way you respond once the company replies is just as important as the follow-up itself.
If they invite you for an interview, reply quickly, thank them, and confirm your availability. Include a note of enthusiasm for the conversation.
If they indicate the process is still ongoing, acknowledge their update and ask (politely) when you might expect further communication.
If they reject your application, stay gracious. A short “thank you for your time and consideration, I hope to be considered for future opportunities” can leave a lasting positive impression. Sometimes, candidates are later reconsidered when another position opens.
At this stage, tone and professionalism count more than anything. Even in rejection, you are building a reputation. A recruiter who remembers you as polite and engaged may think of you for the next role.
The way you respond once the company replies is just as important as the follow-up itself.
If they invite you for an interview, reply quickly, thank them, and confirm your availability. Include a note of enthusiasm for the conversation.
If they indicate the process is still ongoing, acknowledge their update and ask (politely) when you might expect further communication.
If they reject your application, stay gracious. A short “thank you for your time and consideration, I hope to be considered for future opportunities” can leave a lasting positive impression. Sometimes, candidates are later reconsidered when another position opens.
At this stage, tone and professionalism count more than anything. Even in rejection, you are building a reputation. A recruiter who remembers you as polite and engaged may think of you for the next role.
Common pitfalls to avoid
Common pitfalls to avoid
Common pitfalls to avoid
Many candidates unknowingly undermine themselves when following up. Some of the most common errors include:
Following up too quickly within days of applying, which suggests impatience.
Over-messaging sending multiple emails within a short span, which comes across as pushy.
Generic, cut-and-paste emails that fail to mention the company, role, or your unique fit.
Typos, sloppy formatting, or missing contact information, which instantly reduce credibility.
Ignoring instructions, if the job listing explicitly says “no calls or follow-ups,” then don’t.
Each of these mistakes communicates the wrong message. In competitive markets, professionalism and respect for process are part of what sets you apart.
Many candidates unknowingly undermine themselves when following up. Some of the most common errors include:
Following up too quickly within days of applying, which suggests impatience.
Over-messaging sending multiple emails within a short span, which comes across as pushy.
Generic, cut-and-paste emails that fail to mention the company, role, or your unique fit.
Typos, sloppy formatting, or missing contact information, which instantly reduce credibility.
Ignoring instructions, if the job listing explicitly says “no calls or follow-ups,” then don’t.
Each of these mistakes communicates the wrong message. In competitive markets, professionalism and respect for process are part of what sets you apart.
Many candidates unknowingly undermine themselves when following up. Some of the most common errors include:
Following up too quickly within days of applying, which suggests impatience.
Over-messaging sending multiple emails within a short span, which comes across as pushy.
Generic, cut-and-paste emails that fail to mention the company, role, or your unique fit.
Typos, sloppy formatting, or missing contact information, which instantly reduce credibility.
Ignoring instructions, if the job listing explicitly says “no calls or follow-ups,” then don’t.
Each of these mistakes communicates the wrong message. In competitive markets, professionalism and respect for process are part of what sets you apart.
How AutoApplier’s Chrome extension helps with follow-ups
How AutoApplier’s Chrome extension helps with follow-ups
How AutoApplier’s Chrome extension helps with follow-ups
While most advice ends with “send a polite message,” the real challenge for job seekers is scale. Tracking multiple deadlines, remembering when you applied, and scheduling follow-ups across dozens of roles is exhausting.
AutoApplier’s Chrome extension changes that dynamic. By automating LinkedIn applications, it also records when each one was submitted. This means you don’t have to rely on memory or spreadsheets. Instead, the extension reminds you exactly when it’s time to send a follow-up, helping you stay on schedule.
It’s especially powerful when combined with other preparation strategies. For instance, if you’re brushing up on interview readiness, our article on questions to ask in an interview shows how being proactive in conversations makes employers remember you. Following up with that same thoughtful energy ties your entire job search strategy together.
In a market where speed and organization matter, AutoApplier ensures your persistence translates into results.
While most advice ends with “send a polite message,” the real challenge for job seekers is scale. Tracking multiple deadlines, remembering when you applied, and scheduling follow-ups across dozens of roles is exhausting.
AutoApplier’s Chrome extension changes that dynamic. By automating LinkedIn applications, it also records when each one was submitted. This means you don’t have to rely on memory or spreadsheets. Instead, the extension reminds you exactly when it’s time to send a follow-up, helping you stay on schedule.
It’s especially powerful when combined with other preparation strategies. For instance, if you’re brushing up on interview readiness, our article on questions to ask in an interview shows how being proactive in conversations makes employers remember you. Following up with that same thoughtful energy ties your entire job search strategy together.
In a market where speed and organization matter, AutoApplier ensures your persistence translates into results.
While most advice ends with “send a polite message,” the real challenge for job seekers is scale. Tracking multiple deadlines, remembering when you applied, and scheduling follow-ups across dozens of roles is exhausting.
AutoApplier’s Chrome extension changes that dynamic. By automating LinkedIn applications, it also records when each one was submitted. This means you don’t have to rely on memory or spreadsheets. Instead, the extension reminds you exactly when it’s time to send a follow-up, helping you stay on schedule.
It’s especially powerful when combined with other preparation strategies. For instance, if you’re brushing up on interview readiness, our article on questions to ask in an interview shows how being proactive in conversations makes employers remember you. Following up with that same thoughtful energy ties your entire job search strategy together.
In a market where speed and organization matter, AutoApplier ensures your persistence translates into results.
Final thoughts
Final thoughts
Final thoughts
Following up on a job application is a subtle but vital skill. When done correctly, it highlights your interest, reinforces your qualifications, and keeps your name in front of decision-makers. When done poorly, it risks irritating the very people you want to impress.
The formula is simple: wait the right amount of time, identify the correct contact, craft a concise message, and follow up only once more if needed. Then, respond professionally to whatever outcome follows.
By blending this human strategy with the automation of AutoApplier’s Chrome extension, you cover both bases: thoughtfulness and efficiency. That combination gives you the consistency and timing advantage most candidates lack.
Your application deserves more than being lost in an inbox. With the right follow-up and the right tools, you ensure it gets the attention it deserves.
Following up on a job application is a subtle but vital skill. When done correctly, it highlights your interest, reinforces your qualifications, and keeps your name in front of decision-makers. When done poorly, it risks irritating the very people you want to impress.
The formula is simple: wait the right amount of time, identify the correct contact, craft a concise message, and follow up only once more if needed. Then, respond professionally to whatever outcome follows.
By blending this human strategy with the automation of AutoApplier’s Chrome extension, you cover both bases: thoughtfulness and efficiency. That combination gives you the consistency and timing advantage most candidates lack.
Your application deserves more than being lost in an inbox. With the right follow-up and the right tools, you ensure it gets the attention it deserves.
Following up on a job application is a subtle but vital skill. When done correctly, it highlights your interest, reinforces your qualifications, and keeps your name in front of decision-makers. When done poorly, it risks irritating the very people you want to impress.
The formula is simple: wait the right amount of time, identify the correct contact, craft a concise message, and follow up only once more if needed. Then, respond professionally to whatever outcome follows.
By blending this human strategy with the automation of AutoApplier’s Chrome extension, you cover both bases: thoughtfulness and efficiency. That combination gives you the consistency and timing advantage most candidates lack.
Your application deserves more than being lost in an inbox. With the right follow-up and the right tools, you ensure it gets the attention it deserves.
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Want to apply to 1000+ jobs while watching Netflix?
Join 10,000+ job seekers who automated their way to better opportunities