How to Follow Up After Submitting a Job Application

Most candidates submit an application and wait in silence. A well-timed follow-up can be the difference between your resume sitting in a pile and getting a response — if you do it correctly.

When to follow up

Wait at least 5-7 business days after the application deadline (or 1-2 weeks if no deadline is listed). Following up too quickly signals impatience. Following up too late is pointless. One follow-up is appropriate; multiple follow-ups become harassment.

Who to contact

If you know the hiring manager's name from the job posting or LinkedIn, contact them directly. If not, email the recruiter or HR contact if one is listed. If there's no contact information, a LinkedIn message to a relevant person at the company is acceptable.

What to say

Keep it short. Something like: "Subject: Follow-up — [Role Title] Application. Hi [Name], I submitted my application for the [Role Title] position on [Date] and wanted to briefly follow up. I remain very interested in the opportunity and would love to discuss how my background in [X] aligns with your team's goals. Please let me know if there's anything further I can provide. Thank you for your time."

What not to say

Don't ask if they've read your resume. Don't ask for a timeline. Don't apologise for following up. Don't re-send your CV unless asked. Keep it professional and confident.

After an interview

Send a thank-you email within 24 hours of every interview — not a week later. Thank them for their time, reference one specific topic you discussed, and reiterate your interest. This is a basic professional courtesy that shockingly few candidates do.

Use DeckdOut to generate the follow-up email

DeckdOut's Follow-Up Email tool generates a professional follow-up based on the role and company — ready to send or personalise. Available directly in the extension after you've analysed a job.