You finally found a job that looked like a perfect match. You carefully read the requirements, updated your CV, wrote a tailored cover letter, checked everything twice, and clicked Submit.
Then comes the difficult part: waiting.
Days pass. You check your email. Nothing.
Another week goes by. Still nothing.
At this point, many job seekers start wondering: Should I contact the employer? Will following up make me look desperate? How long should I wait? What exactly should I say?
Knowing how to follow up after submitting an application can help you handle this stage professionally. A thoughtful follow-up can remind a recruiter about your application, reaffirm your interest and give you an opportunity to ask about the hiring timeline.
However, timing and approach matter. You don’t want to send repeated messages, pressure the hiring manager or ignore instructions in the job posting.
Generally, career guidance from Indeed recommends waiting about one to two weeks after applying when the employer has not provided a specific timeline. If a vacancy has a closing date, waiting until after the deadline may make more sense.
This guide explains exactly what to do, including when to follow up, who to contact, what to write, whether you should call, what to do if you receive no response, and how to follow up without hurting your chances.
Table of Contents
1.What Does It Mean to Follow Up on a Job Application?
2.Should You Follow Up After Submitting an Application?
3.When Should You Follow Up After Applying for a Job?
4.How to Follow Up After Submitting an Application
5.Who Should You Contact?
6.How to Write a Follow-Up Email
7.Follow-Up Email Template After Applying for a Job
8.Follow-Up Email Examples for Different Situations
9.Should You Call After Submitting an Application?
10.Can You Follow Up Through LinkedIn?
11.What If the Employer Does Not Respond?
12.Common Follow-Up Mistakes to Avoid
13.What to Do While Waiting for a Response
14.Follow-Up Checklist
15.Frequently Asked Questions
16.Conclusion
What Does It Mean to Follow Up on a Job Application?
Following up on a job application means contacting an employer or recruiter after you have submitted your application to politely ask about its status, confirm receipt when appropriate, or reaffirm your interest in the position.
The follow-up is not another application.
Instead, think of it as a short professional reminder.
For example, suppose you applied for a marketing assistant position ten days ago. Rather than simply writing:
“Have you reviewed my application?”
you could briefly identify the position, mention when you applied, reaffirm your interest and ask whether there is an updated hiring timeline.
That approach provides context while respecting the recruiter’s time.
A good follow-up normally contains four important elements:
- The position you applied for
- The date you submitted your application
- A brief statement showing continued interest
- A polite question about the hiring process or next steps
Furthermore, your message should be concise. The employer already has your CV and application materials, so there is no need to rewrite your entire professional history.
Should You Follow Up After Submitting an Application?
Yes, in many situations, a professional follow-up is appropriate.
However, you should first check the job advertisement and any confirmation email you received.
Some employers provide very specific instructions about contacting them. Others may explicitly request that applicants do not call or email to ask about application status.
In that situation, respect the instruction.
A follow-up can be useful because hiring teams are often dealing with many applications simultaneously. Your message can bring your application back to the recruiter’s attention while demonstrating that you remain interested in the position.
Indeed recommends that job seekers use a professional, concise follow-up and focus on relevant qualifications rather than sending a long message.
Nevertheless, following up is not a guarantee of an interview.
Your application still needs to meet the employer’s requirements, and the hiring team may already have moved forward with other candidates.
When following up makes sense
Consider following up when:
- You have waited an appropriate amount of time.
- The employer did not prohibit follow-ups.
- You are genuinely interested in the position.
- You have a professional contact method.
- You want to clarify the hiring timeline.
- You received an application acknowledgment and were given a future timeframe.
- Someone referred you to the organization.
- The advertised closing date has passed.
When you should avoid following up
Be more cautious when:
- The job advertisement says “no calls” or “no follow-ups.”
- You submitted your application only a day or two ago.
- The employer gave a specific response date that has not passed.
- You have already sent several unanswered messages.
- You are contacting multiple employees about the same application simultaneously.
When Should You Follow Up After Applying for a Job?
This is one of the most important questions job seekers ask.
If the employer has not provided a specific timeline, one to two weeks after submitting your application is a reasonable general window for a follow-up. Some guidance suggests waiting up to three weeks depending on the company, position and recruitment process.
The right timing can change depending on the circumstances.
If there is an application deadline
Suppose the vacancy closes on September 15.
Following up on September 5 may be premature because the employer may still be collecting applications.
Instead, wait until after the closing date and allow the recruitment team some time to begin reviewing applications.
Indeed recommends waiting approximately one to two days after a listed deadline before following up when appropriate.
If there is no closing date
Give the employer approximately one to two weeks before sending a brief follow-up.
If the employer gave you a specific timeline
Follow the employer’s timeline instead.
For example:
“We expect to contact shortlisted candidates within three weeks.”
Don’t email after five days asking whether a decision has been made.
Wait until the stated period has passed.
If you received an application confirmation
An automated acknowledgment usually means your application was received.
Therefore, you don’t necessarily need to immediately contact someone simply to ask whether the application arrived.
Instead, keep the confirmation for your records and use the stated hiring timeline to decide when to follow up.
How to Follow Up After Submitting an Application
Now let’s look at the process step by step.
Step 1: Re-read the Job Advertisement
Before contacting anyone, read the vacancy again.
Look for:
- Application closing date
- Expected hiring timeline
- Recruiter’s contact information
- Instructions about contacting the employer
- Required application method
- Reference number
- Instructions for international applicants
- Any statement about follow-up communication
This simple step can prevent an unnecessary mistake.
For example, if the advertisement says:
“Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.”
you should understand that the employer may not respond individually to every applicant.
Step 2: Check Whether Your Application Was Received
Look through your email inbox and spam folder.
Search for phrases such as:
- Application received
- Thank you for applying
- Application confirmation
- Recruitment
- Candidate portal
- Application status
You may also be able to log into the employer’s recruitment portal.
Some applicant tracking systems display statuses such as:
- Application received
- Under review
- Shortlisted
- Interview
- Rejected
- Position filled
However, don’t assume that an online status tells you everything about your chances.
Step 3: Identify the Right Person
Ideally, contact the appropriate recruiter or hiring manager rather than sending your message to a random employee.
Look for a contact listed in:
- The job advertisement
- The company website
- The recruitment portal
- Your application confirmation
- A professional networking profile
- A referral from someone within the organization
If you cannot identify an individual, a general recruitment email may be appropriate when the employer provides one.
Step 4: Choose the Right Communication Channel
Email is usually the safest option.
It gives the employer a written record and allows you to communicate professionally without interrupting their workday.
A phone call can be appropriate in some industries or situations, but only when the employer has provided a number or indicated that calls are acceptable.
LinkedIn can also be useful when you have a legitimate professional reason for contacting someone.
However, avoid contacting the same person through email, phone and LinkedIn immediately after one another.
That can feel excessive rather than enthusiastic.
Step 5: Keep Your Message Short
Your follow-up does not need to be a full essay.
A useful structure is:
Greeting → application details → continued interest → relevant value → question → thank you
For example:
Dear Hiring Manager,
I recently applied for the Administrative Assistant position on September 1 and wanted to follow up regarding the status of my application. I remain very interested in the opportunity, particularly because my experience managing customer records and administrative tasks closely matches the requirements of the role. Could you please let me know if there is an updated timeline for the next stage of the recruitment process? Thank you for your time.
Notice how the message is professional without sounding demanding.
Who Should You Contact?
The best person depends on how the position was advertised.
1. Hiring Manager
If you can identify the hiring manager, they may be an appropriate contact.
2. Recruiter
For larger companies, a recruiter or talent-acquisition specialist may manage the initial recruitment process.
3. HR Department
Human resources can be appropriate when no recruiter or hiring manager is identified.
4. Referral Contact
If an employee referred you, you can also keep that person informed.
For example:
“Thank you again for referring me to the position. I submitted my application last week and remain very interested in the opportunity.”
However, don’t ask the employee to pressure the hiring manager.
How to Write a Follow-Up Email
A professional follow-up email should be clear, brief and relevant.
Use a clear subject line
Examples include:
- Follow-Up on [Job Title] Application
- Application Follow-Up – [Job Title]
- Checking In: [Job Title] Application
- Application Status – [Job Title]
- Follow-Up Regarding [Job Title] Position
A clear subject line allows the recipient to understand the purpose of the message immediately.
Start professionally
Use the person’s name when you know it.
For example:
Dear Ms. Johnson,
If you don’t know the person’s name:
Dear Hiring Manager,
Avoid overly casual openings such as:
“Hey!”
Mention the position
Recruiters may handle several vacancies simultaneously.
Therefore, don’t make them guess which position you mean.
Include:
- Job title
- Application date
- Reference number, if available
Reaffirm your interest
A follow-up is a good opportunity to show that your interest remains genuine.
Instead of:
“I really need this job.”
say:
“I remain very interested in the opportunity and would welcome the chance to discuss how my experience aligns with the role.”
The difference is important.
One focuses on your personal need.
The other focuses on your professional suitability.
Mention one relevant qualification
You don’t need to repeat your entire CV.
Choose one strong connection between your background and the position.
For example:
“My experience managing customer accounts and resolving client issues closely aligns with the responsibilities outlined in the vacancy.”
This reminds the employer why your application deserves consideration.
Ask a simple question
A clear question gives the employer something specific to answer.
Examples:
- “Could you please let me know if there is an updated hiring timeline?”
- “I would appreciate any update you can share regarding the next stage.”
- “Please let me know if you require any additional information from me.”
End professionally
Thank the recipient for their time.
Then include your name and contact information.
Follow-Up Email Template After Applying for a Job
Here is a simple template you can customize.
:::writing{variant=“email” id=“74163” title=“Job Application Follow-Up Email Template”}
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I recently submitted my application for the [Job Title] position on [Date], and I wanted to follow up regarding the status of my application.
I remain very interested in the opportunity, particularly because my experience in [relevant skill/area] closely aligns with the requirements of the position. I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my background could contribute to your team.
Could you please let me know if there is an updated timeline for the next stage of the recruitment process?
Thank you for your time and consideration. Please let me know if you need any additional information from me.
Kind regards,
[Your Full Name] [Phone Number] [Email Address]:::
You can make this template more effective by replacing the general qualification with one specific and genuine strength.
Follow-Up Email Examples for Different Situations
Example 1: General Follow-Up After Applying
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am writing to follow up on my application for the [Job Title] position, which I submitted on [Date].
I remain very interested in the opportunity and believe my experience in [relevant area] would allow me to contribute effectively to the role. I would appreciate any update you can share regarding the recruitment timeline or next steps.
Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to hearing from you.
Kind regards,
[Your Name]
Example 2: After the Application Deadline
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I recently applied for the [Job Title] position before the [Date] application deadline and wanted to follow up as the recruitment process moves forward.
I remain enthusiastic about the opportunity and believe my experience in [specific skill or area] aligns well with the requirements of the position.
Could you please let me know if there is an expected timeline for contacting shortlisted candidates?
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Kind regards,
[Your Name]
Example 3: After an Internal Referral
If someone inside the company referred you, mentioning that connection can provide useful context.
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I recently submitted my application for the [Job Title] position after being referred by [Name]. I wanted to follow up and reaffirm my interest in the opportunity.
My experience in [relevant skill/area] closely matches the responsibilities outlined in the position, and I would welcome the opportunity to discuss my background further.
Please let me know if there is any additional information I can provide or if there is an update regarding the next stage of the recruitment process.
Thank you for your consideration.
Kind regards,
[Your Name]
Example 4: When Your Application Shows “Under Review”
If an applicant portal says your application is under review, there may be little reason to send an immediate message.
After an appropriate waiting period, you could write:
Dear [Name],
I noticed that my application for the [Job Title] position is currently listed as under review. I wanted to briefly reaffirm my interest in the opportunity and ask whether there is an updated timeline for the next stage of the recruitment process.
Thank you for your time.
Indeed similarly recommends allowing additional time when an application is already marked as under review.
Example 5: When You Forgot to Include Important Information
Suppose you submitted your application and later realized that you omitted a relevant certification.
Don’t send several messages.
Instead, if the employer provides a suitable contact method, send one concise message explaining the situation.
For example:
“I recently submitted my application for the [Job Title] position and realized that I did not include my [Certification] in the application materials. I wanted to provide this information for completeness. Please let me know if you would like me to submit the certification through the application portal.”
Follow the employer’s instructions rather than attaching unnecessary documents.
Should You Call After Submitting an Application?
Sometimes, but email is generally a better first option unless the employer specifically invites calls.
A phone call can be appropriate when:
- The job advertisement provides a contact number.
- The employer encourages applicants to call.
- You are applying to an organization where phone communication is normal.
- You need to clarify an administrative issue.
- A recruiter has previously communicated with you by phone.
On the other hand, don’t call repeatedly because you haven’t received an immediate answer.
Indeed’s current guidance notes that a follow-up call can be appropriate after a week or two when an applicant has not heard back, while also emphasizing that candidates should respect instructions against calls.
What should you say on the phone?
Keep it simple:
“Good morning. My name is [Name]. I recently applied for the [Job Title] position and wanted to ask whether you could provide an update on the recruitment timeline. I remain very interested in the opportunity.”
If the person says they cannot provide an update, thank them and end the call politely.
Can You Follow Up Through LinkedIn?
Yes, but use good judgment.
LinkedIn can be useful when:
- You know the recruiter professionally.
- The recruiter has publicly identified themselves as handling recruitment.
- You have a genuine professional connection.
- You want to establish a professional relationship.
However, don’t send a long private message immediately after submitting every application.
A short message is usually better.
For example:
“Hello [Name], I recently applied for the [Job Title] position at [Company]. I’m very interested in the opportunity and wanted to connect. I have experience in [relevant area], which closely relates to the role. Thank you.”
Don’t bombard the recruiter with messages on multiple platforms.
What If the Employer Does Not Respond?
This is extremely common.
No response does not automatically mean your application was rejected.
The company may be:
- Still reviewing applications
- Waiting for the application deadline
- Interviewing candidates
- Delaying the recruitment process
- Waiting for internal approval
- Dealing with a large applicant pool
- Holding the position temporarily
- Prioritizing another candidate
- Simply slow to communicate
Therefore, don’t immediately assume the worst.
How many times should you follow up?
A sensible approach is to keep follow-ups limited.
One thoughtful follow-up is usually better than several messages sent close together.
If there is still no response after another reasonable period, a final brief follow-up may be appropriate.
Indeed’s guidance suggests that contacting the hiring manager again can be reasonable, but if there is still no response after subsequent follow-up, continuing the job search is the better approach.
When should you move on?
Move forward when:
- The employer has rejected your application.
- The position has been filled.
- Your messages remain unanswered after reasonable follow-up.
- The vacancy disappears and you cannot obtain useful information.
- Several weeks have passed with no meaningful communication.
Moving on doesn’t mean giving up on the company forever.
You can continue applying for other positions while keeping the door open.
Common Follow-Up Mistakes to Avoid
1. Following Up Too Soon
Sending a message the day after applying rarely gives the employer enough time to review your application.
Give the process time unless there is a specific reason to contact them.
2. Sending “Any Update?”
A message containing only:
“Any update?”
doesn’t provide much context.
Instead, identify the role and explain why you’re contacting the employer.
3. Sounding Desperate
Avoid statements such as:
“I really need this job.”
Your financial situation may be important to you, but it isn’t an appropriate reason to pressure a hiring manager.
Focus on your qualifications and genuine interest.
4. Writing a Very Long Email
Hiring managers are busy.
A follow-up email should not become a second cover letter.
Keep it focused.
5. Repeating Your Entire CV
Your follow-up is not the place to list every qualification you’ve ever earned.
Mention one or two relevant strengths at most.
6. Contacting Multiple Employees at Once
Sending the same message to five employees can make your communication look aggressive.
Start with the most appropriate contact.
7. Calling When the Advertisement Says Not to
Always follow the employer’s instructions.
Ignoring a clear “no calls” request is unlikely to help your application.
8. Attaching Unrequested Documents
Don’t send your passport, certificates, bank statements or other sensitive documents simply because you want to strengthen your follow-up.
Only provide documents through legitimate channels when they are actually requested.
protect-personal-information-jobs-scholarships
9. Using an Unprofessional Email Address
Your email address is part of your professional presentation.
An address based on your name is generally preferable to something containing slang, jokes or unrelated phrases.
10. Forgetting to Proofread
A follow-up is another professional interaction.
Check:
- Employer name
- Job title
- Spelling
- Date
- Contact information
- Grammar
- Attachments, if applicable
A simple error can undermine an otherwise professional message.
What to Do While Waiting for a Response
One of the biggest mistakes job seekers make is stopping their job search after submitting one strong application.
Don’t do that.
Think of every application as one opportunity rather than your only opportunity.
While waiting, you can:
Continue applying
Search for other positions that match your skills and experience.
Improve your CV
Review your achievements and make sure your CV emphasizes relevant results rather than generic responsibilities.
how-to-write-canadian-style-cv
Improve your cover letters
A tailored cover letter can help explain why your background fits a particular role.
how-to-write-a-good-cover-letter
Prepare for interviews
Research common interview questions and practice explaining your experience clearly.
Research employers
Learn about organizations you would genuinely like to work for.
Build professional connections
Connect with people in your industry and participate meaningfully in professional communities.
Track your applications
Create a simple spreadsheet containing:
| Job | Company | Date Applied | Deadline | Follow-Up Date | Status |
| Marketing Assistant | Company A | Sept. 2 | Sept. 15 | Sept. 22 | Submitted |
| Customer Service Rep | Company B | Sept. 4 | None | Sept. 18 | Submitted |
| Administrative Assistant | Company C | Sept. 5 | Sept. 12 | Sept. 14 | Submitted |
This prevents you from forgetting where and when you applied.
It also reduces the temptation to send duplicate messages.
Follow-Up Checklist
Before contacting an employer, ask yourself:
- Have I waited long enough?
- Did I check the application deadline?
- Did I read the employer’s contact instructions?
- Did I check whether my application was received?
- Am I contacting the right person?
- Is my subject line clear?
- Did I mention the position?
- Did I state when I applied?
- Did I briefly reaffirm my interest?
- Did I mention a relevant qualification?
- Did I ask a clear question?
- Is the email concise?
- Did I proofread it?
- Am I avoiding unnecessary attachments?
- Have I avoided contacting the employer through several channels simultaneously?
If you can answer “yes” to most of these questions, your follow-up is likely to be professional and appropriate.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should I wait before following up on a job application?
If the employer hasn’t provided a specific timeline, waiting about one to two weeks is a reasonable general guideline. However, the appropriate timeframe depends on the company, position and application deadline.
Is it okay to follow up after submitting an online application?
Yes. A professional follow-up can be appropriate after giving the employer enough time to review applications. If the employer specifically says not to contact them, however, respect that instruction.
Should I email the hiring manager after applying?
You can, provided you have a legitimate professional contact method and the employer hasn’t asked applicants not to contact them. A concise email is usually preferable to an unexpected phone call.
What should I say when following up on a job application?
Mention the position, when you applied, your continued interest and one relevant qualification. Then politely ask whether there is an update on the recruitment timeline or next steps.
Is it desperate to follow up after applying?
No. A well-timed and professional follow-up generally demonstrates initiative and continued interest. Repeated messages sent too frequently, however, can become counterproductive.
Should I follow up if the application says “under review”?
You can wait longer when the application is already marked as under review. If a significant amount of time passes, a brief message reaffirming your interest and asking about the timeline can be reasonable.
How many times should I follow up?
There is no universal number, but avoid repeatedly contacting the employer. One well-timed follow-up is often enough, with a second brief message only when circumstances justify it.
Should I call or email after submitting an application?
Email is generally the safer first option because it is less intrusive and creates a written record. A phone call can make sense when the employer provides a number or specifically encourages applicants to call.
What if I don’t know the hiring manager’s name?
Use a professional greeting such as “Dear Hiring Manager” if you cannot reasonably identify the appropriate person.
Should I attach my CV again?
Usually, don’t attach documents unnecessarily. Follow the employer’s instructions and only resend application materials when there is a legitimate reason to do so.
Can I follow up through LinkedIn?
Yes, when there is a genuine professional reason and the recruiter or hiring manager is appropriately reachable there. Keep the message brief and professional.
What if the employer never responds?
Don’t allow one unanswered application to stop your job search. After reasonable follow-up, continue applying elsewhere. Some employers simply do not communicate individually with every applicant.
Does following up guarantee an interview?
No. Following up can demonstrate professionalism and interest, but it cannot guarantee an interview or job offer.
External Link Suggestions
Indeed
Use it when discussing general follow-up timing and follow-up email practices. Current Indeed guidance recommends roughly one to two weeks in many circumstances and emphasizes concise, professional messages.
Indeed: How to Follow Up on a Job Application
Government or official recruitment websites
For international job seekers, link to the relevant government immigration or employment authority when discussing work authorization, sponsorship or visa-related steps.
Don’t use a random immigration blog as the primary authority for legal or immigration requirements.
Employer’s official careers page
When discussing a particular vacancy, the employer’s official careers page should be the preferred source for:
- Application deadlines
- Recruitment instructions
- Contact information
- Job requirements
- Work authorization requirements
This also helps readers avoid fake recruitment websites.
A Simple Follow-Up Strategy You Can Remember
If you forget everything else in this article, remember this:
Submit → Wait → Check → Follow up → Continue searching.
Submit
Make sure your application is complete and tailored to the position.
Wait
Give the employer reasonable time to review applications.
Check
Look at the vacancy, confirmation email and applicant portal for instructions or status updates.
Follow up
Send one concise, professional message when the timing is appropriate.
Continue searching
Never make one application your entire job search.
This final step is particularly important.
A job search is a numbers-and-quality game. You can submit an excellent application and still not be selected because another candidate has more directly relevant experience, the company changes its hiring plans, the vacancy is paused, or the position is filled internally.
Therefore, keep moving.
Conclusion
Knowing how to follow up after submitting an application is an important part of a professional job search.
The goal isn’t to pressure the employer into responding. Instead, your follow-up should serve as a polite reminder, reaffirm your interest and give you an opportunity to understand the next stage of the recruitment process.
In most cases, give the employer around one to two weeks when no specific timeline has been provided. If there is an application deadline, consider waiting until the recruitment window has closed. Above all, follow the instructions in the vacancy and avoid contacting employers through multiple channels unnecessarily.
Keep your message short. Identify the position, mention when you applied, highlight one relevant strength and ask a clear question about the next steps.
Most importantly, don’t stop your job search while waiting for one employer.
Update your CV. Improve your cover letters. Apply for other suitable opportunities. Prepare for interviews. Build professional connections.
One unanswered application does not define your job search.
A professional follow-up combined with consistent applications gives you a much better strategy: stay interested, stay professional and keep moving forward.