Sending a job application and hearing nothing is the norm. The average corporate posting receives 250+ applications, and many never receive a response. A well-timed, well-written follow-up can genuinely move your application forward.
When to Follow Up
| Situation | Wait Time |
|---|---|
| After submitting application | 1-2 weeks |
| After phone screen, no next step | 5-7 business days |
| After interview, waiting for decision | 5-7 business days |
| After final round, waiting for offer | 7-10 business days |
Follow up once. If no response, follow up one more time 7 days later. After that, redirect your energy.
Template 1: After Applying (No Response)
Subject: [Your Name] — [Role Title] Application
>
Hi [Name/Hiring Team],
>
I applied for the [Role Title] position on [date] and wanted to briefly follow up to confirm my application was received and express my continued interest.
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I'm particularly drawn to [specific thing about the company or role]. I believe my background in [relevant skill] makes me a strong fit. I'd be happy to provide any additional information.
>
Best, [Your Name] | [Phone] | [LinkedIn URL]
Template 2: After an Interview (Waiting for Decision)
Subject: Checking In — [Role] at [Company]
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Hi [Name],
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I wanted to touch base regarding the [role]. Our conversation on [date] left me even more excited — especially [reference to something specific from the interview].
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I understand you may still be evaluating. I just wanted to reiterate my strong interest and let you know I'm available for any follow-up questions.
>
Best, [Your Name]
Template 3: When You Have a Competing Offer
Subject: Update on My Search — [Role] at [Company]
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Hi [Name],
>
I wanted to give you a quick update. I've received an offer from another company with a [X]-day deadline. My strong preference is to join [Company] — is there any possibility of an update on the timeline?
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I don't want to make a decision without knowing whether [Company] is still a possibility.
>
Best, [Your Name]
Template 4: After Being Rejected (Stay in Touch)
Subject: Thank You — [Role] at [Company]
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Hi [Name],
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Thank you for letting me know. While I'm disappointed, I genuinely enjoyed learning about [Company] and have a lot of respect for what you're building.
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If appropriate, I'd love to stay connected for future opportunities.
>
Best, [Your Name]
The Rules
Do: Be brief (under 100 words), reference something specific, maintain professional tone regardless of frustration.
Don't: Follow up more than twice without a response, send on weekends, express frustration, CC their manager.