3 Simple Ways to Follow Up After Submitting Your Resume

The job search process can be a challenging journey, often marked by the anticipation of hearing back from potential employers. One essential aspect of this process is resume follow-up.

In this article, we’ll explore what resume follow-up entails, why it’s important, the timing and frequency of follow-ups and the methods you can use.

We’ll also provide valuable insights on how to craft effective follow-up emails and phone calls.

What is Resume Follow-Up?

Resume follow-up refers to the proactive step of reaching out to a potential employer after submitting your resume for a job application. It’s a way to express your continued interest in the position, keep your application top of mind and demonstrate your enthusiasm for the opportunity.

Why is it Important to Follow Up After Submitting Your Resume?

• Reinforces Your Interest: Following up reaffirms your commitment to the position, showing the employer that you’re genuinely interested.
• Stays on Their Radar: In a competitive job market, following up helps ensure that your application doesn’t get lost in the shuffle of other candidates.
• Demonstrates Initiative: It portrays you as a proactive candidate who takes the job search seriously.

When Should You Follow Up?

The timing of your follow-up is crucial. Typically, you should wait about one to two weeks after submitting your resume before reaching out.

This allows the employer sufficient time to review applications and shortlist candidates.

Also Read: Legal Internships for Law Students

How Often Should You Follow Up?

While it’s important to show your interest, it’s equally crucial not to be overbearing. Follow up no more than twice unless the employer explicitly advises otherwise. Space out your follow-ups, allowing at least a week between each one.

What Methods of Follow-Up are There?

After submitting your resume for a job application, it’s crucial to engage in follow-up activities to express your continued interest and increase your chances of standing out to potential employers. Various methods of follow-up are available and choosing the right one depends on the situation and your comfort level.

1. Email Follow-Up

Email follow-up is one of the most common and convenient methods for reaching out to potential employers. Here’s how to utilise email effectively:

When to Use Email

• After Submitting Your Resume: Send an initial follow-up email a week or two after submitting your resume. This is an excellent way to express your continued interest and inquire about the status of your application.
• After an Interview: Sending a thank-you email after an interview is a must. It allows you to express gratitude, reiterate your interest and address any additional points that may have arisen during the interview.

How to Write an Effective Email Follow-Up

• Keep It Professional: Your email should maintain a professional tone, similar to your initial application.
• Use a Clear Subject Line: Make sure the subject line clearly indicates the purpose of the email (e.g., “Follow-Up on Job Application” or “Thank You for the Interview”).
• Reintroduce Yourself: Start by briefly reintroducing yourself and mentioning the position you applied for or the date of your interview.
• Express Continued Interest: Clearly state your continued interest in the role and the company.
• Offer Additional Information: Make it easy for the employer by offering to provide any further information they may need, such as references or portfolio samples.
• Keep It Concise: Avoid lengthy emails. Be concise and to the point.
• Use Proper Formatting: Use appropriate formatting, including paragraphs and bullet points, to ensure your email is easy to read.
• Proofread: Before hitting “send,” thoroughly proofread your email to catch any typos or grammatical errors.
• Be Timely: Send your email follow-up within a reasonable timeframe after the event or submission you’re following up on.

2. Phone Follow-Up

Phone follow-up involves making a phone call to the potential employer to inquire about the status of your application or express your continued interest. Here’s how to do it effectively:

When to Use Phone Follow-Up

• After Submitting Your Resume: If you have a contact number for the hiring manager or HR department, consider calling a week or two after submitting your resume.
• After an Interview: Phone follow-up can be particularly impactful after an interview, especially if you’ve been advised of a specific timeframe for a decision.

How to Execute Phone Follow-Up

• Prepare Your Script: Before making the call, prepare a script or outline to ensure you convey your message clearly and succinctly.
• Choose the Right Time: Try to call during business hours when someone is more likely to be available to speak with you.
• Be Polite and Professional: Maintain a courteous and professional tone during the call, just as you would in an email or face-to-face interaction.
• State Your Name and Purpose: Start the call by stating your name and the specific position you applied for or the purpose of your call.
• Express Continued Interest: Clearly express your ongoing interest in the role and inquire about any updates or additional information needed.
• Be Prepared to Leave a Voicemail: If you don’t reach the hiring manager directly, be ready to leave a brief, well-structured voicemail that conveys your message effectively.
• Follow Up on Promised Actions: If the hiring manager mentioned a specific timeframe for their decision during the interview, make sure to follow up accordingly.

Also Read: How to Prepare for an Online Law Interview

3. In-Person Follow-Up

In-person follow-up involves visiting the company’s office or attending job fairs or networking events to connect with potential employers face to face. Here’s how to make the most of in-person follow-up:

When to Use In-Person Follow-Up

• Job Fairs and Networking Events: Attend job fairs or industry-specific networking events to introduce yourself to potential employers and inquire about job opportunities.
• Company Visits: If you live in close proximity to the company you’ve applied to, visiting their office in a non-disruptive manner can leave a positive impression.

How to Execute In-Person Follow-Up

• Dress Professionally: When attending events or visiting offices, dress professionally to make a positive first impression.
• Prepare an Elevator Pitch: Have a brief and engaging elevator pitch ready to introduce yourself and express your interest in the company.
• Bring Copies of Your Resume: Carry printed copies of your resume to distribute if requested.
• Ask Informed Questions: When engaging with employers, ask thoughtful questions about their company and the positions they have available.
• Collect Contact Information: Ensure you collect business cards or contact information from the people you meet for future follow-up.

Tips for Following Up

• Don’t Be Afraid to Follow Up Multiple Times: While it’s essential to avoid being annoying, don’t hesitate to follow up more than once if you receive no response. Sometimes, it’s simply a matter of your message getting lost or overlooked.
• Keep Your Messages Positive and Professional: Maintain a positive and professional tone in all your interactions. Avoid any negativity or frustration.
• Respect the Employer’s Time: Understand that employers are often busy and they may not be able to respond immediately. Be patient and give them the space to review applications.

Wrapping up

Resume follow-up is a critical component of the job search process. By approaching it with professionalism, patience and enthusiasm, you can increase your chances of staying on the employer’s radar and ultimately landing the job you desire. Remember that effective follow-up is a demonstration of your commitment and initiative, qualities that employers value in prospective candidates.