How to Write the Perfect Application Follow-Up Email

When you find the perfect job, it’s exciting. You spend time updating the content of your resume, ensuring it perfectly targets the role. Then, you craft a carefully worded cover letter, highlighting your expertise and enthusiasm regarding the opportunity.

After that, you wait, hoping for a response. If you don’t get one, you may wonder if you can give an update. Fortunately, that’s an option. By sending a well-written follow-up email, you can continue to make a great first impression, reassert your interest in the role, and potentially get a timeline for interviews.

Here’s a step-by-step process to write the perfect application follow-up email.

Choose the Right Contact

You can’t send a follow-up email without choosing a contact. Generally, you have two choices in this regard. First, check the job ad to see if an email is listed. Second, you can find out the hiring manager and make a connection.

Often, the latter is the best approach, as it ensures you’re speaking with a decision-maker. Look at the company website for details, which may be shown on pages focused on the company structure. You can also check LinkedIn.

However, if the company is larger, the odds are high that the hiring manager isn’t involved in the early screening process. As a result, you may need to find a recruiter or human resources manager associated with the organization instead.

Create the Email

After finding the contact, it’s time to write the email. You’ll want to begin with a clear subject line that outlines the nature of the message.

In the body of the email, add a greeting and include the contact’s name. Then, introduce yourself by providing your name and job title, and mentioning that you’re following up on a job application for a specific position.

Next, include two or three sentences that highlight how you can provide value to the company. When possible, discuss achievements, quantifying the details. You can also mention anything new that’s relevant that wasn’t on your resumes, like a newly acquired skill or certification.

Then, reiterate that you’re still interested in the opportunity. Follow that up with a request for an interview. Finally, express your appreciation for their consideration. Then, using a closing salutation, add your name, and include your email address, phone number, and a link to your LinkedIn profile.

Proofread the Email

Once the email is written, take a moment to proofread it several times. Mistakes can make a poor impression, so you want to review it to ensure proper spelling and grammar.

In some cases, you may want to enlist help from a trusted family member, friend, or colleague. At times, the second set of eyes may notice issues you overlook. However, you can also put the email into a text-to-speech program, as listening to it read aloud can help you spot certain errors.

Once the proofreading is complete, you can send the message. Ideally, you’ll get a response. However, if you don’t, refrain from following up again for at least two weeks, as that ensures the hiring manager has enough time to review applications, choose interview times, and reach out before you follow up again.