Best Practices for Following Up After Submitting Your Resume and Cover Letter

After submitting your resume and cover letter, it's important to follow up in a professional and appropriate manner. This can send a positive impression to hiring managers and demonstrate your genuine interest in the position. However, it's crucial to balance this with respect for the employer's time and process.

Timing: When to Follow Up

The optimal time to follow up after submitting your application is around 1-2 weeks later. This gives the employer ample time to review all the applications and make initial decisions. Waiting too long might make your follow-up seem irrelevant or uncaring, while following up too soon can be seen as disrespectful or pushy.

Follow-Up Methods: Email vs. Phone Call

Email: Using email is a professional and flexible method to follow up. Send a concise and polite message to the hiring manager or recruiter. Express your continued interest in the position and politely inquire about the status of your application. For example:

"I wanted to thank you for considering my application for the [Position] role at [Company]. I'm very excited about the opportunity and would appreciate any updates regarding my application. Thank you so much for your time and consideration."

Phone Call: A phone call can be more effective, especially if the job posting explicitly invites inquiries. Prepare a brief, respectful message to convey your enthusiasm and ask about your application. Be mindful of the employer's time by asking if they have a moment to discuss your application or if you can call back during a more convenient time, as in:

"I understand your time is valuable, and I’m reaching out to check in about my application for the [Position] role. May I have a moment to discuss it, or would it be better to call back at a different time?"

General Tips for Following Up

Be Professional: Maintain a professional tone in your follow-up, whether you choose to follow up via email or phone. Express gratitude for their time and consideration.

Avoid Overdoing It: Limit yourself to one follow-up within a reasonable timeframe. Multiple follow-ups could come across as too aggressive or intrusive.

Respect Their Process: Some companies may have strict hiring protocols that prohibit follow-up calls. If you sense hesitation or resistance during your call, be understanding and respectful.

When to Not Follow Up

It's not always necessary to follow up every time you apply. Many job postings receive thousands of applications, with only a fraction advancing to the next stages. Only follow up if:

The job posting encourages applicants to contact the employer. You have submitted your application in person or through a personal referral. A recruiter specifically asked for a follow-up call or email.

Even then, follow up only after 6-7 business days to give the employer enough time to review the applications. For example:

"I noticed I haven’t heard back from [Company] regarding my application for the [Position] role. I wanted to reach out to make sure you received my submission and to offer any additional information that may be helpful. I understand you’re busy, so if this isn’t a good time, no worries. Thank you for your consideration."

Final Thoughts

Following up can indeed demonstrate your interest and commitment, but it's important to do so in a manner that respects the employer's process. Choose the method that feels most appropriate for the company's culture, and be mindful of their time and convenience. By doing so, you increase your chances of making a positive impression and advancing in the hiring process.