How to Follow Up on a Job Application (Without Being Annoying)
You applied.
Now you wait.
But for how long? And should you follow up, or does that seem desperate?
Following up is a legitimate part of the job search — but there's a right way and a wrong way to do it.
The Timing Question
Most companies take 1-2 weeks to begin reviewing applications, longer for competitive roles.
Following up after three days signals impatience, not enthusiasm.
A good rule: wait at least one week after the application deadline (if there was one) or 10-14 days after applying to an open posting.
If the job posting mentioned a timeline ("applications reviewed on a rolling basis" or "hiring by end of month"), use that as your guide.
Find the Right Person
A follow-up to a generic careers inbox disappears into the void.
Instead, try to identify:
- The hiring manager for the role
- The recruiter handling the position
- Someone on the team you'd be joining
LinkedIn makes this easier.
Look at who posted the job, who works in that department, or who has "recruiting" in their title at the company.
What to Say
Keep it short.
The goal is to express continued interest and politely prompt a response, not to re-pitch yourself.
A simple framework:
Reference the role you applied for and when
2.
Reiterate brief enthusiasm for the opportunity
3.
Ask if there's any additional information you can provide
4.
Thank them for their time
Example:
"Hi [Name], I applied for the [Role] position about two weeks ago and wanted to follow up briefly.
I'm very interested in the opportunity and believe my experience in [relevant area] would be a strong fit.
Please let me know if there's any additional information I can provide.
Thanks for your time and consideration."
That's it.
No need for a full cover letter redux.
What Not to Do
- Don't follow up multiple times. One follow-up is fine.
Two is pushing it.
Three is too many.
Don't follow up too soon. Give the process time to work.
Don't express frustration. "I haven't heard anything and I'm wondering what's going on" is not a good look.
Don't call unless they specifically asked you to. Email is less intrusive.
Accept That Silence Is Common
Here's the hard truth: many companies never respond to applicants they're not moving forward with.
It's poor practice, but it's reality.
If you've followed up once and heard nothing after another week or two, it's probably time to move on mentally.
Keep the door open, but focus your energy elsewhere.
hrvstr tracks every application status and reminds you when it's time to follow up — so you never miss a window or over-message a contact. [Track your applications →]