Applying for a job can take a lot of time and effort. It takes time to search through job listings to find the right position to apply for. Once you find a job you’re interested in, you need to research the company, update your resume and cover letter, fill out the application, write an email, and review your application package. This can take hours.
So, it’s common for you to get a little antsy if you don’t hear back from the company. You put a lot of time into your application; hearing nothing will make you want to quickly follow up. But many candidates are not sure if, when and how to follow up with a job application.
Here are some effective tips from Toronto recruiters for following up with a job application:
1. Review the Listing
Before you follow up, make sure you have re-read the job listing in detail. Consider the timelines and dates and any instructions provided by the hiring company with regard to how they will contact you. You may have overlooked something. The hiring process with some companies can take weeks before they respond to your application.
If a closing date for applications is listed, wait to follow up after the job has closed. In the meantime, keep looking for other opportunities. Also, make sure to follow the company on social media and connect online.
2. Give It Some Time
In most instances, hiring companies are not going to reply to your application right away. They will wait until the job closes before reviewing all applications. Even after the job closes, it can take some time to review them and narrow down the list of candidates they want to contact. In general, wait at least one week after the closing date to follow up.
It’s important to be respectful of the company’s time. Also, note that some companies request you do not follow up via phone or email. If this is the case, refrain from following up, even though this can be frustrating.
3. Follow Up the Right Way
Keep in mind that you are one of many waiting for a reply. It’s important to follow up the right way. Keep your follow up brief. Get to the point. Restate your interest in the job and ask about when you should hear about the next steps.
4. Get the Timing Right
The beginning and end of the week are not great times to send your follow up email or make a call. Most people are busy. Follow up mid-week when people typically have more time to reply.
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