How to Follow Up After Applying for a Job (Email Templates Included)

You've submitted the perfect application. Now what?

Most candidates either never follow up (missed opportunity) or follow up too aggressively (annoying). The sweet spot can set you apart from hundreds of other applicants.

Should You Follow Up?

Short answer: Usually, yes.

Why follow up works:

• Shows genuine interest in the role
• Keeps you top of mind
• Demonstrates initiative and professionalism
• Many hiring managers appreciate it

When NOT to follow up:

• The posting specifically says "no calls or emails"
• You've already followed up twice with no response
• It's been less than one week since applying

The Follow-Up Timeline

After Applying Online

After an Interview

Finding the Right Contact

The best follow-ups go to actual people, not generic inboxes.

How to Find the Hiring Manager

1. Check the job posting — Sometimes names are included
2. LinkedIn — Search "[Job Title] at [Company]" to find likely managers
3. Company website — Look for team pages or leadership bios
4. Google — "[Company] [Department] head" or "[Company] [Role] manager"

Email Format Guessing

Most companies use one of these formats:

• firstname@company.com
• firstname.lastname@company.com
• firstinitiallastname@company.com

Use tools like Hunter.io to verify email formats.

If You Can't Find Anyone

Send to:

• The recruiter listed in the posting
• careers@company.com (less effective but still works)
• A connection at the company who can forward internally

Email Templates

Template 1: First Follow-Up After Application

Subject: Following Up: [Job Title] Application - [Your Name]

Hi [Name],

I recently applied for the [Job Title] position at [Company] and wanted to express my continued interest in the role.

With my background in [relevant experience], I'm excited about the opportunity to contribute to [specific company goal or project]. I believe my experience in [key skill] would be valuable for [specific aspect of the role].

I'd welcome the chance to discuss how I can contribute to your team. Please let me know if you need any additional information from me.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Best regards, [Your Name] [Phone Number] [LinkedIn URL]

Template 2: Second (Final) Follow-Up

Subject: Re: Following Up: [Job Title] Application - [Your Name]

Hi [Name],

I wanted to follow up on my previous email regarding the [Job Title] position. I remain very interested in this opportunity and am confident I could make a strong contribution to [Company].

I understand you're likely reviewing many candidates. If the position has been filled or you've decided to move in a different direction, I completely understand and would appreciate a brief update.

If the role is still open, I'd love to schedule a brief conversation at your convenience.

Thank you again for your consideration.

Best regards, [Your Name] [Phone Number]

Template 3: Post-Interview Thank You

Subject: Thank You - [Job Title] Interview

Dear [Interviewer Name],

Thank you for taking the time to speak with me today about the [Job Title] position. I enjoyed learning more about [specific topic discussed] and the exciting work happening at [Company].

Our conversation reinforced my enthusiasm for this role. I'm particularly excited about [specific aspect discussed], and I'm confident my experience in [relevant skill] would help me contribute quickly.

[Optional: Address any questions you could have answered better]

Please don't hesitate to reach out if you need any additional information. I look forward to hearing from you.

Best regards, [Your Name]

Template 4: Follow-Up When Decision Is Delayed

Subject: [Job Title] Position - Checking In

Hi [Name],

I hope this message finds you well. I wanted to check in regarding the [Job Title] position. During our last conversation on [date], you mentioned the team hoped to make a decision by [date].

I remain very enthusiastic about the opportunity and would be happy to provide any additional information that might help with your decision.

I understand hiring decisions take time, so please let me know if there's a new timeline I should keep in mind.

Thank you, and I hope to hear from you soon.

Best regards, [Your Name]

Template 5: Following Up Through a Connection

Subject: [Job Title] at [Company] - Introduction Request

Hi [Connection's Name],

I hope you're doing well! I recently applied for the [Job Title] position at [Company] and noticed you're connected with the team there.

If you're comfortable, would you be willing to forward my resume or put in a good word? I've attached my application materials for reference.

[Brief 1-2 sentence pitch about why you're a good fit]

I completely understand if you're not able to help—no pressure at all. Either way, I appreciate you considering it.

Thanks so much! [Your Name]

What NOT to Do

Don't Be Pushy

❌ "I haven't heard back yet—when will you make a decision?" ❌ Following up more than twice before any response ❌ Calling repeatedly after being told to email

Don't Be Desperate

❌ "I really need this job" ❌ "I'll do anything to work there" ❌ Apologizing excessively for following up

Don't Be Generic

❌ Copy-pasting the same email with no personalization ❌ "To Whom It May Concern" ❌ No mention of the specific role or company

Don't Include Your Resume Again

They have it. Focus on adding new value, not repeating yourself.

When to Follow Up by Phone

Phone calls are higher risk/higher reward:

When phone works:

• Small companies without formal HR
• When you have a contact's direct line
• After establishing email rapport
• Industries where cold calling is normal (sales)

When to avoid phone:

• Large corporations with formal processes
• When posting says "no calls"
• If you don't have a specific person to call

Phone script if you do call:

"Hi, this is [Name]. I recently applied for the [Position] role and wanted to follow up to express my interest. Is this a good time for a brief conversation, or could you point me toward the right person to speak with?"

Keep it under 60 seconds if they're busy.

Tracking Your Follow-Ups

Stay organized to avoid awkward duplicate messages:

Track for each application:

• Date applied
• Contact name and email
• Follow-up #1 date and response
• Follow-up #2 date and response
• Notes on any conversations

Use a spreadsheet, Notion, or a dedicated job search app.

Key Takeaways

1. Follow up 7-10 days after applying (not sooner)
2. Maximum two follow-ups if no response
3. Find the hiring manager rather than using generic emails
4. Personalize every message—no copy-paste templates
5. Send thank-you emails within 24 hours of interviews
6. Be professional, not pushy or desperate
7. Track all your applications and follow-ups

A thoughtful follow-up won't guarantee you the job, but it can be the difference between being remembered and being forgotten. Make it count.