Following up after applying: when and how

Most job seekers either never follow up or follow up too aggressively. The sweet spot is straightforward: one timely, brief, specific message. This guide covers when to send it, how to send it, and what to say.

When to follow up

After submitting an application with no response, wait at least five to seven business days before reaching out. Most companies acknowledge applications within a week; following up sooner will not help and can irritate a recruiter managing a high volume of candidates.

If you had an interview and were given a specific timeline for next steps ("we will be in touch by Friday"), wait until that date has passed before following up.

Who to contact and how

The best path, if you can find it, is a direct message to the hiring manager or recruiter on LinkedIn, or a reply to any existing email thread. Cold email to a generic HR inbox is less effective.

If you do not have a contact: many job postings list the recruiter by name on LinkedIn. A brief, professional connection request or InMail mentioning your application is appropriate.

What to say

Keep it to three or four sentences. The goal is to surface your application, not to make a new argument for why you should be hired. That case is already in your resume and cover letter.

Example message after applying:

Hi [Name], I applied for the [Role] position last week and wanted to follow up to confirm my application came through and reiterate my interest. I have been following [Company] because [specific reason], and I think my background in [relevant thing] would be a strong fit for what you're building. Happy to answer any questions. Thanks for your time.

Example message after an interview with no response:

Hi [Name], I wanted to follow up on our conversation on [date]. I remain very interested in the [Role] position and in joining the team. Please let me know if there is anything else you need from me or if you have an update on timing. Thanks again.

How many times to follow up

Once after the application. Once after an interview where you were given a timeline and it has passed. If you have still heard nothing after a second follow-up, the decision has likely been made and you should move on.

Following up more than twice in any single hiring process reads as desperation and can close doors at that company for future roles.

Tracking follow-ups in TailorFit

TailorFit's activity log on each application lets you record every call, email, and message you send. You can set a follow-up reminder so you do not have to remember which applications are overdue for a check-in.

The Overview dashboard surfaces follow-ups that are due so you can see at a glance which applications need attention this week.