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How to follow up on a job application

Follow up one to two weeks after you apply, or on the date the posting gives, with a short email to the recruiter or hiring manager that restates the role and why you fit. If you do not hear back, follow up once more a week later, then move on. A follow-up is one of the few things that can move an application from the pile to a person.

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When to follow up

  • If the posting gives a timeline, wait until it passes, then write.
  • If it does not, wait about a week to two after applying.
  • After a conversation or an interview, send a thank-you within a day and follow up on the timeline you were given.
  • Two follow-ups at most for one application. After that, stop.

Who to write to

  • The recruiter named in the posting, if any.
  • The hiring manager, which you can often find on LinkedIn by searching the team and title.
  • A person you know at the company, who can tell you who is handling it.

A template

Subject: Director of Finance application, Jordan Lee

Hi [Name], I applied last week for the Director of Finance role. With nine years leading finance for regional healthcare groups and a rebuilt forecasting process that cut the budget cycle from 11 weeks to 6, I believe I can help. I would welcome a chance to talk about the role. Thank you, Jordan Lee, [phone]

If you hear nothing

Silence usually means the role is on hold, filled or in a slow process. Keep applying and talking to people. If it keeps happening, the problem may be your fit for the roles you are choosing or your résumé; our guide shows what to check.

Frequently asked questions

How long should I wait to follow up on a job application?

Until the posted timeline passes, or about one to two weeks if none is given.

How do I follow up on a job application by email?

Send a short email to the recruiter or hiring manager that names the role, restates your fit in one or two lines and asks for the next step.

How many times should I follow up?

Up to two times for one application. After that, move on.

What if I never hear back?

Treat it as a no and keep going. If it happens often, check your target roles and your résumé.

Free tools for this

Keep track

A simple way to track applications, contacts and follow-up dates.

Open the tracker guide