Follow up your job application
Applying for a role, and then not hearing back from either the recruitment agency or employer is frustrating. You gain nothing by doing nothing, so don't just feel sorry for yourself, do something about it.
If you haven’t heard back, proactively contact the agency/company to find out if they have read your CV and if they are interested.
How long should I wait?
If the advert doesn't have a close date, I'd advise you to wait 7-10 days from your application.
If there is a closing date, again 7-10 days from the deadline is a sensible time to follow up.
The only time not to follow up is if the advert clearly states you should not contact the agency/company after you've applied. No matter how much you want the role!
Getting in touch
Not surprisingly, email is the best way. Partly for speed and but also it gives you the opportunity to reinforce your relevant skills and also attach your CV again.
Send your follow up email to the person or general email address you originally used. If you applied to a link or code then try and find the relevant name and email address. Investigate the company's website to see if there are contact details. This isn't always easy, but persevere - most people won't!
Send your email in the early morning, so that the recipient sees it at the start of their day, before their inbox fills up or they get busy with other tasks.
How to phrase it
Be positive about this - you are interested in a vacancy, and showing dedicated commitment. Keep the tone of your follow up professional (no text speak!) and friendly; and certainly don't highlight that you're disappointed not to have heard back. I'd advise you to include:
name and the position you have applied for
the date you sent your CV
reiterate your enthusiasm and suitability for the role
ask the company if they need any further information or references
thank the company for their time reviewing your application
keep it concise - less is more!
Here's one I prepared earlier
“Subject: Your Full Name - Office Manager Position
Dear Ms Jones
I hope you're well.
I sent my CV on the DATE for the position of Office Manager advertised on jobvac.com
I appreciate you have probably received a large number of applications for this role. However, I wanted to take this opportunity to reiterate my strong interest in the vacancy. I have over 10 years relevant Office Management experience, in companies of a similar size to ABC Ltd, and my personal strengths are an excellent match to your requirements.
For your convenience I have attached an additional copy of my CV. I'd be very happy to give you any further information if required, and can be contacted on (phone number and email address).
Thank you for your time.
Yours sincerely
Your Name”
Of course, these tips don't work every time. But they can tip the scales in your favour, so don't hold back. In the current climate, you're better off keeping your applications ‘quality not quantity’, giving you more time to focus on each one. As an experienced Interview Coach, I can add to these tips to help you get that next role. I offer a free initial 30 minute consultation. Contact me on peter@essentialinterviewcoaching.co.uk or 07531 279923.