How to follow up on a job application
You sent your application two weeks ago. Nothing. Do you chase? How? When? Getting this right can keep you in the running — getting it wrong can take you out of it.
When is it appropriate to follow up?
The general rule: wait until the application deadline has passed, or — if no deadline was given — at least one to two weeks after submitting. Following up too early signals impatience; too late and the decision may already be made.
What following up actually achieves
A well-timed follow-up email can:
- Confirm your application was received (useful if you're unsure)
- Reiterate your interest and keep you top of mind
- Give you a timeline so you can manage other offers
- Occasionally prompt a recruiter to review an overlooked application
How to find the right contact
If the job posting listed a contact name, use it. If not, check LinkedIn for the company's HR Manager or Talent Acquisition team. Emailing the general HR inbox (hr@company.com or careers@company.com) is also fine for a follow-up.
Follow-up email templates
Standard follow-up after 2 weeks
Dear [Name / Hiring Team],
I hope this message finds you well. I applied for the [role title] position on [date] and wanted to follow up to confirm my application was received and to reiterate my strong interest in the role.
Having researched [company name] further since applying, I'm even more enthusiastic about the opportunity to contribute to [specific team/project/goal].
I appreciate your time is limited during the hiring process and am happy to wait for your timeline. Please do let me know if there's any additional information I can provide in the meantime.
Kind regards,
[Your name]
When you have a competing offer
Dear [Name],
I wanted to reach out regarding my application for the [role title] position submitted on [date]. I remain very interested in this opportunity and wanted to let you know that I have received another offer with a decision deadline of [date].
This role at [company name] is my first choice, and I wanted to flag the timing in case it helps you prioritise. I'm happy to discuss further if helpful.
Kind regards,
[Your name]
What not to say
- "Just checking in" — vague and adds no value
- "I was wondering if you had a chance to look at my application" — too passive
- Anything that sounds desperate or pressuring
- A follow-up within the first week of applying
How many times can you follow up?
Once, maybe twice if there's a genuine reason (like a competing offer). Three or more follow-ups without a response is a signal to move on. Persistence in job searching is a virtue; persistence with a specific unresponsive employer is just noise.
If they say the role is filled
Reply graciously, thank them for letting you know, and ask if they'd keep your details on file for future roles. Brief, professional, no bitterness — the person you email today may be the hiring manager for your dream job in two years.
Make sure your application is ready
A strong CV and cover letter give you the best chance before you even need to follow up.
📄 Update my CV →