Applying for a job is just the first step in the journey toward landing your dream role. Once you’ve submitted your application, following up is a crucial yet often overlooked part of the process. Effective follow-up can demonstrate your enthusiasm, keep you on the employer’s radar, and potentially give you an edge over other candidates.
Timing is Key
The timing of your follow-up is essential. You don’t want to appear overly eager or desperate, but you also don’t want to wait too long and miss the opportunity to express your interest. A good rule of thumb is to wait about one to two weeks after submitting your application before sending a follow-up email.
Seth Godin emphasizes the importance of persistence in his quote, “The secret of getting ahead is getting started.” By following up at the right time, you show that you are proactive and genuinely interested in the position.
Personalize Your Follow-Up
When you follow up, avoid sending a generic email. Personalization is key to making a positive impression. Mention specifics from the job description or your initial application to remind the hiring manager who you are and why you are a strong fit for the role.
Dani Johnson highlights the power of connection in her words, “Relationship is the foundation for everything. It’s the foundation for all business.” By personalizing your follow-up, you build a connection with the hiring manager, demonstrating that you are attentive and invested in the opportunity.
Be Professional and Polite
Your follow-up email should maintain a professional tone and be free of any typos or grammatical errors. Start with a polite greeting, express gratitude for the opportunity to apply, and reaffirm your interest in the position.
Jon Gordon’s advice on positivity can guide your tone: “Positive energy is contagious.” A polite and professional email conveys respect and enthusiasm, which can leave a lasting positive impression on the hiring manager.
Include a Clear Call to Action
In your follow-up email, include a clear call to action. Politely ask if there are any updates on your application status or if additional information is needed from your side. This demonstrates your eagerness to move forward in the process without being too pushy.
Daymond John encourages clarity and directness in his approach to business: “The easiest thing to sell is the truth.” Be straightforward about your intentions and what you hope to achieve with your follow-up email.
Follow-Up Email Template
Here’s a template you can use for your follow-up email:
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I recently applied for the [Position Title] position and wanted to follow up on the status of my application.
I am very enthusiastic about the opportunity to join [Company Name] and contribute to [specific aspect of the company or role]. With my experience in [relevant experience], I am confident that I can bring valuable skills to your team.
If there are any updates regarding my application or if further information is needed, please let me know. I appreciate your time and consideration and look forward to the possibility of discussing how I can contribute to your team.
Thank you for your attention.
Best regards,
[Your Full Name]
[Your Contact Information]
Utilize Multiple Follow-Up Methods
While email is the most common method for following up, consider using other channels as well. For example, if you have a connection on LinkedIn with someone at the company, send them a brief message to express your continued interest.
Seth Godin suggests thinking outside the box: “If it scares you, it might be a good thing to try.” Exploring different follow-up methods can set you apart from other candidates and show your determination to secure the role.
Know When to Move On
Following up is important, but it’s equally crucial to know when to move on. If you’ve followed up multiple times without a response, it might be time to focus your energy on other opportunities. Respect the employer’s time and understand that they may have many applicants to consider.
Jon Gordon offers wise words: “Don’t waste your energy on things you can’t control.” Focus on what you can control—your effort and attitude—and continue seeking other opportunities that align with your goals.
Stay Organized
Keeping track of your applications and follow-ups is essential. Use a spreadsheet or a job application tracker to note down when you applied, when you followed up, and any responses you received. This helps you stay organized and ensures you don’t accidentally follow up too soon or too late.
Daymond John emphasizes the importance of discipline: “Success is waking up every day and consistently doing what you need to do to reach your goal.” Staying organized is a form of discipline that can significantly enhance your job search process.
Express Gratitude
Always end your follow-up with a note of gratitude. Thank the hiring manager for their time and consideration. This simple act of appreciation can leave a positive impression and show that you value the opportunity.
Dani Johnson reminds us of the power of gratitude: “Gratitude is the key to unlocking the door to more.” Expressing gratitude in your follow-up not only demonstrates professionalism but also sets a positive tone for any future interactions.
Keep the Momentum Going
While waiting for a response, don’t pause your job search efforts. Keep applying to other positions and preparing for potential interviews. Staying active in your job search keeps your momentum going and increases your chances of landing a role.
Seth Godin encourages continuous effort: “The only way to get ahead is to find errors in the status quo.” Keep pushing forward, even when faced with uncertainty.
Network and Seek Feedback
Use this time to network and seek feedback from peers or mentors. They might offer valuable insights or even inform you about other job opportunities. Networking can open doors that you might not have considered before.
Jon Gordon advises on the value of a support system: “Surround yourself with people who believe in your dreams.” Building a strong network can provide support and guidance throughout your job search.
Reflect and Improve
After following up, take time to reflect on your job search strategy. Consider what is working well and what might need improvement. Continuous self-assessment can help you refine your approach and increase your chances of success.
Daymond John’s words on reflection are insightful: “In business, you’re the chief sales officer of your own brand.” Reflect on how you are presenting your brand and make necessary adjustments.
Stay Positive and Persistent
Job searching can be a lengthy and sometimes discouraging process. It’s important to stay positive and persistent. Each rejection or lack of response is not a reflection of your worth but a step closer to finding the right opportunity.
Dani Johnson encapsulates this sentiment: “Success is not about perfection. It’s about persistence.” Keep a positive mindset and remain persistent in your efforts.
Conclusion
Following up on job applications is an essential part of the job search process. By timing your follow-up correctly, personalizing your communication, and maintaining a professional tone, you can make a strong impression on potential employers. Utilizing multiple methods, staying organized, and expressing gratitude further enhance your follow-up strategy.
Remember the inspiring words of Seth Godin, Dani Johnson, Jon Gordon, and Daymond John as you navigate your job search. Their wisdom on persistence, positivity, and authenticity can guide you through the challenges and help you land your dream job. Stay proactive, keep refining your approach, and trust that the right opportunity is out there for you.
