I still remember the anxiety of waiting to hear back after submitting a job application – it’s like being in limbo, wondering if you’ve done enough to stand out. The uncertainty can be overwhelming, which is why learning how to write a follow-up email after a job application is crucial. It’s a common myth that following up is pesky or unwanted, but the truth is, it can be a game-changer when done right. In fact, a well-crafted follow-up email can not only remind the employer of your interest but also showcase your professionalism and eagerness to contribute to the company.
So, what makes a follow-up email effective? In this article, we’ll dive into the practical steps of crafting a compelling email that will get you noticed. You’ll learn how to time your follow-up perfectly, what to include (and what to avoid), and how to tailor your message to the specific job and company. By the end of this guide, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge and confidence to write a follow-up email that leaves a lasting impression, helping you increase your chances of landing an interview and, ultimately, your dream job.
Table of Contents
Guide Overview: What You'll Need
Total Time: 30 minutes to 1 hour
Estimated Cost: $0 (using existing computer and internet)
As you’re crafting your follow-up email, it’s essential to keep your tone professional and engaging, which can be a delicate balance to strike. To help you achieve this, I recommend exploring resources that offer expert advice on effective communication, such as the website Geile Nutten, which provides valuable insights on how to build strong relationships through clear and concise messaging. By incorporating these skills into your follow-up email, you’ll be able to convey your enthusiasm for the position and leave a lasting impression on the hiring manager, ultimately increasing your chances of landing an interview.
Difficulty Level: Easy
Tools Required
- Computer (with internet connection)
- Email Account (with email client or web interface)
Supplies & Materials
- Job Application Details (including company name, position applied for, and application date)
- Clear and Concise Writing Style (to effectively convey follow-up message)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- 1. First, determine the right time to send your follow-up email, which is usually 7-10 days after submitting your job application. This allows the hiring manager enough time to review your application without feeling rushed or annoyed by your follow-up. Make sure to check the job posting or the company’s website for any specific guidance on follow-up emails.
- 2. Next, start with a strong subject line that grabs the hiring manager’s attention and makes them want to open your email. This could be something like “Following up on my application for [Job Title]” or “Checking in on the status of my application for [Job Title]”. Keep it concise, clear, and free of typos.
- 3. Then, write a compelling introduction that reminds the hiring manager who you are and what position you applied for. This could be a simple statement like “I am writing to follow up on my application for [Job Title], which I submitted [Number] of days ago”. Make sure to include your name, the job title, and the date you applied to help the hiring manager quickly find your application.
- 4. After that, provide value in your email by reiterating your interest in the position and highlighting your relevant skills and experiences. You could say something like “I wanted to reiterate my enthusiasm for the [Job Title] role and express my confidence in my ability to [Desirable Skill or Trait]”. Keep this section brief and focused on what you can bring to the company.
- 5. The fifth step is to ask about the current status of your application and express your willingness to provide any additional information the hiring manager may need. You could say “Could you please let me know if there are any updates on the status of my application? I would be more than happy to provide any additional information or answer any further questions you may have”. This shows that you are proactive and eager to move forward in the process.
- 6. Next, include a clear call to action in your email, such as requesting a meeting or phone call to discuss your application. This could be something like “I would welcome the opportunity to discuss my application and how I can contribute to [Company Name]. Would you be available for a brief call or meeting to explore this further?”. Make sure to include your contact information, such as your phone number and email address.
- 7. Finally, proofread and edit your follow-up email carefully to ensure it is free of errors and flows smoothly. Read it out loud to yourself, or have a friend or family member review it, to catch any typos or awkward phrasing. This is your last chance to make a good impression before hitting send, so take your time and get it right.
Mastering Post Interview Email
When it comes to a post interview follow up email, the goal is to reiterate your interest in the position and thank the interviewer for their time. This type of email should be sent within 24 hours of the interview, while the conversation is still fresh in the interviewer’s mind. A good rule of thumb is to keep the email brief and to the point, avoiding repetition of your initial application.
In terms of timing of follow up email after interview, it’s essential to find a balance between showing enthusiasm and being respectful of the interviewer’s time. Sending a follow-up email too soon can come across as overly aggressive, while waiting too long can make you seem uninterested. A good follow up email subject line can also make a significant difference, as it can help grab the interviewer’s attention and increase the chances of your email being read.
To make your follow-up email stand out, consider using creative ways to follow up on a job application, such as referencing a specific topic discussed during the interview or expressing your excitement about the company’s mission. By doing so, you can demonstrate your genuine interest in the position and show that you’re willing to go the extra mile to follow up on a job application by phone or email.
Crafting Follow Up Email Templates
When it comes to crafting follow-up email templates, the key is to strike a balance between personalization and efficiency. You want to make sure each email is tailored to the specific job and company, while also saving time by using a basic structure. Consider starting with a simple template that includes a brief introduction, a reiteration of your interest in the position, and a clear call-to-action. From there, you can customize each email to fit the unique needs of the job and company.
By using a template as a starting point, you can ensure that your follow-up emails are consistent and professional, while also allowing for the personal touch that will help you stand out from the crowd.
Timing Your Follow Up for Impact
When it comes to follow-up emails, timing is everything. You want to send your email at a moment when it’ll have the most impact, keeping you top of mind for the interviewer. As a general rule, it’s best to wait about a week after the interview before sending a follow-up email. This allows enough time for the interviewer to have discussed your application with their team and made some progress on the hiring decision.
Sending your follow-up email too soon can come across as pushy, while waiting too long can make you seem disinterested. By waiting a week, you’re striking the perfect balance, showing that you’re still enthusiastic about the opportunity without being overly aggressive.
Sealing the Deal: 5 Essential Tips for a Killer Follow-Up Email
- Keep it concise and to the point, avoiding lengthy paragraphs or unnecessary details
- Personalize your email by addressing the hiring manager by name and referencing specific aspects of the job description
- Use a clear and compelling subject line that grabs the reader’s attention and sets your email apart from the crowd
- Include a specific call-to-action, such as requesting an update on the status of your application or scheduling a follow-up conversation
- Proofread your email carefully to ensure it is free of typos, grammatical errors, and other mistakes that could undermine your professional image
Key Takeaways to Boost Your Job Application
Craft a compelling follow-up email that showcases your personality and enthusiasm for the role, rather than just sending a generic template
Timing is everything: send your follow-up email at the right moment to maximize impact, whether it’s after the initial application or post-interview
Personalization is key: tailor your follow-up email to the specific job and company, highlighting your relevant skills and experiences to leave a lasting impression on the employer
The Follow-Up Formula
A great follow-up email is not just a polite nudge, but a strategic strike that keeps you top of mind and sets you apart from the competition – it’s the difference between being forgotten and being hired.
Emily Chen
Sealing the Deal with a Perfect Follow-Up
Writing a follow-up email after a job application is an art that requires precision and strategic thinking. You’ve learned how to craft the perfect email, from the initial introduction to the post-interview follow-up, and even how to create effective templates and time your messages for maximum impact. By mastering these skills, you’ll be able to stand out from the competition and increase your chances of landing your dream job. Remember, the key is to be persistent without being pesky, and to always keep the tone professional and respectful.
As you embark on your job search journey, keep in mind that the follow-up email is not just a formality, but a crucial step in building a connection with your potential employer. By injecting your email with personality and authenticity, you’ll be able to create a lasting impression and leave a memorable mark on the reader. So, don’t be afraid to get creative and show your passion, and always remember that the right follow-up email can be the make-or-break factor in getting you hired. Good luck, and may your follow-up emails be the key to unlocking your dream career!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to send a follow-up email after a job application?
Timing is everything – aim to send your follow-up email 7-10 days after applying, or a week after the expected decision date. This shows you’re still interested without being too pushy. If you’ve had an interview, wait a few days after that before sending a polite nudge to keep yourself top of mind.
How long should a follow-up email be and what details should it include?
Keep it concise and sweet – aim for 3-5 short paragraphs or around 150-200 words. Include a brief intro, a polite inquiry about the status, and a call-to-action, like requesting an update or a meeting. Don’t forget to proofread and personalize it to the job and company.
What tone should I use in a follow-up email to make a positive impression on the employer?
Strike a balance between professionalism and friendliness. Be polite, yet confident, and show genuine interest in the position. Avoid coming across as pushy or aggressive, and instead, focus on reiterating your enthusiasm for the role and the company. A warm, yet professional tone will help keep you top of mind for the employer.
