How Do You Write A Follow Up Email After Applying: A Comprehensive Guide to Landing Your Dream Job
So, you’ve submitted your application. Congratulations! The next step, and often the most crucial, is the follow-up. But how do you write a follow up email after applying that truly works? It’s a delicate balance of persistence and professionalism, and it can make or break your chances. This guide will walk you through crafting follow-up emails that get noticed, remembered, and ultimately, get you hired.
The Importance of Following Up: Why It Matters
Why bother? In today’s competitive job market, following up is essential. It demonstrates your genuine interest, showcases your proactive nature, and reminds the hiring manager of your application. It’s easy for applications to get lost in the shuffle, and a well-timed follow-up can bring yours back to the forefront. It’s also a great way to show that you are serious about the role and are willing to go the extra mile.
Timing is Everything: When to Send Your Follow-Up
The timing of your follow-up email is critical. Sending it too soon can appear pushy, while waiting too long might be seen as a lack of interest. A good rule of thumb is to wait 7-10 business days after submitting your application. However, this can be adjusted based on the information provided in the job posting. If they state a timeline for application review, respect that. If you’ve interviewed and haven’t heard back within the timeframe promised, a follow-up is definitely warranted.
The Exception to the Rule: Interview Follow-Up
If you’ve already had an interview, your timeline shortens dramatically. Send a thank-you email within 24 hours of the interview. This isn’t just a follow-up; it’s a crucial opportunity to reiterate your interest, thank the interviewer for their time, and remind them of your key qualifications.
Crafting the Perfect Subject Line: Getting Your Email Opened
Your subject line is the first impression. It needs to be clear, concise, and compelling. Avoid generic subject lines like “Following Up.” Instead, use something that immediately identifies you and the position. Consider these examples:
- “Following Up: [Your Name] - Application for [Job Title]”
- “Checking In: [Your Name] - [Job Title] Application”
- “Regarding Your [Job Title] Opening - [Your Name]”
Pro Tip: If you interviewed, mention the date of your interview in the subject line to jog their memory. For instance, “Thank You - [Your Name] - Interview on October 26th.”
Writing the Body of Your Follow-Up Email: Key Elements
Now, let’s get to the heart of the matter – the email itself. Here’s a breakdown of the essential elements:
1. The Greeting: Be Professional and Polite
Start with a professional greeting. “Dear [Hiring Manager Name]” or “Dear [Mr./Ms. Last Name]” is ideal. If you don’t know the hiring manager’s name, use “Dear Hiring Manager” or “Dear [Company Name] Hiring Team.”
2. Reiterate Your Interest: Briefly Remind Them
In the first paragraph, immediately remind them of the position you applied for and your initial interest. Keep it concise. For example: “I am writing to follow up on my application for the [Job Title] position, which I submitted on [Date].”
3. Briefly Reiterate Your Value: Highlight Your Key Skills
This is your chance to remind them why you’re a great fit. Focus on one or two key skills or experiences that align with the job requirements. Avoid simply repeating your resume. Instead, offer a brief, compelling anecdote or a specific example that demonstrates your abilities.
4. Express Your Enthusiasm: Show Your Passion
Let your enthusiasm for the role and the company shine through. This is your opportunity to reiterate why you want this specific job and why you’re excited about the possibility of contributing to the team.
5. Call to Action: Request Next Steps
Clearly state what you’d like them to do next. This could be a request for an update on their hiring process, or a reiteration of your availability for an interview. Keep it simple and direct. For example: “I would appreciate an update on the status of my application and remain available for an interview at your earliest convenience.”
6. The Closing: Professional and Polished
End with a professional closing, such as “Sincerely,” “Best regards,” or “Thank you for your time and consideration.” Include your full name, phone number, and email address in your signature.
Examples of Effective Follow-Up Email Templates
Here are a few templates you can adapt for your own use:
Template 1: Following Up After Applying
Subject: Following Up: [Your Name] - Application for [Job Title]
Dear [Hiring Manager Name],
I am writing to follow up on my application for the [Job Title] position, which I submitted on [Date]. I am very enthusiastic about the opportunity to [mention something specific about the role].
In my previous role at [Previous Company], I successfully [briefly describe a relevant achievement]. I am confident that my skills in [Skill 1] and [Skill 2] align well with the requirements of this position.
I would appreciate an update on the status of my application and remain available for an interview at your earliest convenience.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name] [Phone Number] [Email Address]
Template 2: Following Up After an Interview
Subject: Thank You - [Your Name] - Interview for [Job Title]
Dear [Hiring Manager Name],
Thank you again for taking the time to speak with me on [Date of Interview] about the [Job Title] position. I thoroughly enjoyed learning more about the role and the company.
Our conversation further solidified my interest in this opportunity, and I am particularly excited about [mention something specific discussed during the interview].
I am confident that my skills and experience in [Skill 1] and [Skill 2], as we discussed, would allow me to make a significant contribution to your team.
Please let me know if you require any further information. I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Best regards,
[Your Name] [Phone Number] [Email Address]
Common Mistakes to Avoid in Your Follow-Up
- Being too pushy: Don’t bombard the hiring manager with emails. One follow-up is usually sufficient.
- Sending generic emails: Tailor each email to the specific job and company.
- Having typos or grammatical errors: Proofread your email carefully.
- Including irrelevant information: Stick to the points that highlight your qualifications.
- Giving up: If you don’t hear back, it doesn’t necessarily mean a no.
Leveraging LinkedIn: A Strategic Approach
LinkedIn can be a powerful tool for your job search, including your follow-up strategy. After you’ve applied, connect with the hiring manager or recruiter on LinkedIn. This allows you to subtly stay top of mind. You can also view their profile to learn more about their background and interests, and potentially tailor your follow-up email accordingly. However, avoid being overly intrusive on LinkedIn. Don’t send unsolicited messages or bombard them with connection requests.
The Art of Patience: What to Do If You Don’t Hear Back
Sometimes, despite your best efforts, you won’t receive a response. If you haven’t heard back after your follow-up, it’s generally acceptable to send one more follow-up email a week or two later. Keep it brief and professional, reiterating your interest and availability. After that, it’s likely best to move on. Don’t let it discourage you. The job search process can be lengthy, and rejection is a common part of it.
FAQ: Understanding the Nuances
Here are some frequently asked questions that can help you refine your approach:
How can I personalize my follow-up email beyond just mentioning the job title?
Go beyond generic statements. Research the company’s recent news, projects, or values. Mention something specific that resonated with you from the job description or their website. This demonstrates that you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested.
What if the job posting specifically says “no phone calls”?
Respect their instructions. In this case, stick to email follow-ups only.
Is it okay to follow up if I applied through a recruiter?
Yes, but your approach should be slightly different. Contact the recruiter directly, referencing the job title and your application submission date. Keep the recruiter informed of your interest and available for an interview.
How do I handle a situation where I’ve interviewed with multiple people at the same company?
Send individual thank-you emails to each interviewer, tailoring the content to your conversation with each person. This shows that you remember the details of each interaction.
What if I find out the position has been filled?
Even if the position is filled, it’s still worthwhile to send a brief thank-you email to the hiring manager. Express your appreciation for their time and reiterate your interest in future opportunities. You never know when another opening might arise.
Conclusion: Securing the Next Step
Writing a compelling follow-up email after applying is a critical step in the job search process. By understanding the importance of timing, crafting a clear and concise message, and tailoring your approach to each opportunity, you significantly increase your chances of landing your dream job. Remember to be professional, proactive, and persistent, and you’ll be well on your way to achieving your career goals.