How to Follow Up After Applying for a Job

There is a set routine for many job seekers. Submit an application, and wait for a call back. Submit an application, and wait for a call back. Submit an application, and wait for a call back. How is this pattern working for you? It works well for some, but for many, failing to actively following up is a huge missed opportunity.
Hiring managers are extremely busy, and applicant tracking systems are not always 100 percent effective, so applications CAN fall through the cracks. Proactively following up will not only help prevent this from happening, but it will also give you an opportunity to talk to and make a good initial impression with hiring manager before you interview. Here is some advice on how to follow up with hiring managers:
When to Reach Out 
The timeline for following up after submitting you application can be sensitive. You don’t want to be annoying by following up too soon, yet you want to maximize your outreach by timing it perfectly.
“Candidates should follow up within about 48-72 hours after submitting their cover letter and resume. You want to make sure you give the recruitment team enough time to review the applications they have received from the posting,” said Carrie Losch, Medix’s corporate recruiter. “If you call too soon, hiring managers will tell you they will review your resume and return a call if you are chosen for an interview. If you call to late, they may tell you that the role has been filled. With that in mind, 48-72 hours is a great time frame to land somewhere in between those two scenarios.”
How to Contact Hiring Managers
Email, phone, social media – there are several options for reaching out to hiring managers. But what works best?
“Connecting via LinkedIn has become a great way to reach out to managers. However, I would only do this post-application,” said Losch. “I also believe calling directly to speak to a manager or to leave a message is still very beneficial when trying to land that dream job.”
What to Ask
“Do you need additional information from me?”
Asking this question will open the door for hiring managers to take a second look at your application.
“Do you have any initial questions about my application?”
This question will give you the opportunity to verbally add to your resume or cover letter in case there are any gray areas that stood out to the hiring manager.
“What are the next steps in the recruiting process?”
Asking this will give you insight into the timeline and what to expect. You might also be able to gauge how interested the hiring manager is in interviewing you. For example, if the hiring manager definitely wants to interview you, he/she may just go ahead and schedule a time to meet. On the flip side, if the hiring manager doesn’t think you’re a fit, his/her answer might be very vague and wishy-washy. Every hiring manager and application process is different, so use your best judgment and don’t give up until you have a definite answer either way.
Following up after applying to positions can be nerve-wracking, but it’s a great opportunity for you to get your name in front of decision-makers. So change up your application routine, and make room for follow up!
Have additional advice? Leave us a comment!