Once you have applied for a job, you can get in touch with the recruiter, later on, to follow up on the application. Although this is not an essential step, it does set you apart from other candidates. Furthermore, it conveys that you are interested to have the position. We are going to discuss all the details of the application follow up in this article.
What Following Up on an Application is Exactly?
A follow-up is basically a phone or e-mail you send to check in after a resume is submitted. If you are successful at it, it will persuade the hiring manager to give close attention to your application. This way they are likely to give more consideration to it and will end up reaching out for an interview.
Ways to Follow-up After Applying
For a successful follow-up, the timing and message matter immensely. We have several guidelines for you to apply when you want to do a follow-up.
1. Wait for At Least Two Weeks
After you have applied for your dream job, the natural inclination would be to move everything forward quickly. Regardless, it is important to wait at least two weeks before following up. That period will allow the hiring manager to accept and process the submitted applications. There will be a much better chance of receiving information that is useful, in comparison to an early inquiry.
2. Be Clear and Concise
Keep in mind, that a follow up must be brief and concise. The communication should not turn into a lengthy and non-relevant one. The application has already been submitted. The purpose of a follow-up is just to be a reminder. It just serves to relay how you are a much better candidate for the job than the others. Keep the email only as long as three paragraphs. While the phone call does not have to exceed more than a few minutes.
3. Clarify Your Interest
Your follow-up for an application must start with a confirmation that you are interested in the job. Begin with a statement that refers to your application for the position. Then clarify that you are really enthusiastic about the work you are hoping to do.
4. Emphasize Your Major Qualifications
The next step is to briefly mention your skills and qualifications that make you suitable for the role. Focus upon the abilities that are most noteworthy. Also, mention any experiences or certifications that can make your position stronger than other applicants.
5. Express Your Appreciation
Conclude the follow-up by being grateful for the time and attention of the recruiting team. Carefully prompt the next stage in the hiring process. That consists of checking up your references and arranging an interview. Also, provide your accurate and complete contact information. This will make it easier for the employer to contact you when they wish.
Tips for Job Application Follow-ups
We have 4 of the most effective follow-up tips that will help in making a positive impression.
Interact with the Hiring Manager
It is always wiser to email or calls the hiring manager for a follow-up, instead of the HR department. It is basically the manager’s responsibility to search for the perfect candidate for a position. Getting into their good graces will automatically increase your chances of an interview call.
Emailing is the Better Option
A hiring manager is most likely to prefer a follow-up in the form of an email rather than a phone call. This allows them to track your conversation. Furthermore, they can respond to it when they have the right information to tell you. Or when it is convenient enough to do so in their busy schedule.
Choose the Right Time for a Call
If you go for a follow-up via call, the do it in the afternoon instead of the mornings. The workload is most often thinned by then. Or if possible, just call your hiring manager by the end of the day. It makes it all the more convenient to respond to.
Be Aware When a Follow-up is not Required
It is the policy of some companies that they do not prefer candidates to contact once they have applied. Check for any hints like these in the job description. As emailing or calling in a situation like that can completely ruin your chances.
This was all the information you could possibly need to know about following up on a job application. A follow-up can make quite a difference to your application if the company policy allows it. It lends a personal touch to your application and shows how eager you are to get the position. If done right, it can surely lead you to secure an interview with your potential employer. For any assistance for resumes or cover letters, contact job application help for quality work.