Ace Your Job Application: Free Follow-Up Email Template (and Expert Tips!)

Landing a job in today's competitive market requires more than just a stellar resume. It demands persistence and a proactive approach. One crucial, often overlooked, step is sending a job application follow-up email. I’ve personally used this strategy countless times throughout my career (and helped many clients do the same!), and it’s consistently proven to increase response rates. This article provides a free, downloadable follow up email template after sending resume examples, along with actionable advice to maximize your chances of getting an interview. We'll cover everything from timing to tone, ensuring your email reinforces your interest and professionalism. Let's dive in!

Why Send a Follow-Up Email After Submitting Your Resume?

You’ve poured hours into crafting the perfect resume and cover letter, meticulously tailoring them to the specific job description. But submitting your application doesn't guarantee it will be seen. Recruiters and hiring managers are often inundated with applications. A well-crafted job application follow-up email serves several vital purposes:

• Reinforces Your Interest: It demonstrates genuine enthusiasm for the role and the company.
• Keeps You Top-of-Mind: It gently reminds the hiring manager of your application amidst a sea of others.
• Provides an Opportunity to Reiterate Key Qualifications: You can briefly highlight skills or experiences particularly relevant to the position.
• Shows Initiative: It portrays you as a proactive and engaged candidate.

When to Send Your Follow-Up Email

Timing is everything. Sending your follow-up email too soon or too late can be detrimental. Here's a general guideline:

• Initial Follow-Up: Wait approximately 5-7 business days after submitting your application. This allows the recruiter time to review applications.
• Second Follow-Up (Optional): If you haven't heard back after another 7-10 business days, you can send a brief second follow-up.
• Avoid Excessive Follow-Ups: Bombarding the hiring manager with emails will likely backfire.

Important Note: Some job postings may specify a timeline for responses. Always adhere to those instructions.

Free Downloadable Follow-Up Email Template

Here's a versatile follow up email template after application you can adapt to your specific situation. A downloadable version is available at the end of this article.

Section	Example Text
Subject Line:	Follow-Up: [Your Name] - [Job Title] Application
Greeting:	Dear [Hiring Manager Name], (If you know it. Otherwise, use "Dear Hiring Team,")
Body - Paragraph 1:	I am writing to follow up on my application for the [Job Title] position, which I submitted on [Date]. I am very interested in this opportunity and believe my skills and experience in [mention 1-2 key skills/experiences] align well with the requirements outlined in the job description.
Body - Paragraph 2 (Optional):	I was particularly excited to learn about [mention something specific about the company or role that interests you – shows you’ve done your research]. I am confident that I can contribute significantly to [mention a specific team or project].
Body - Paragraph 3:	I have attached my resume for your convenience. I am eager to learn more about this role and discuss how my qualifications can benefit your team.
Closing:	Thank you for your time and consideration.
Signature:	Sincerely, [Your Name] [Your Phone Number] [Your Email Address] Open Follow Up Email After Sending Resume Examples

How to Customize Your Follow-Up Email

While the template provides a solid foundation, personalization is key. Here's how to tailor it for maximum impact:

• Find the Hiring Manager's Name: LinkedIn is your best friend here. Research the company and try to identify the hiring manager or recruiter responsible for the position. Addressing the email to a specific person shows you've taken the initiative.
• Reference the Job Description: Specifically mention skills or experiences that directly address the requirements outlined in the job description. This reinforces your suitability for the role.
• Show Genuine Interest: Don't just say you're interested; explain why. Mention something specific about the company's mission, values, or recent projects that resonates with you.
• Keep it Concise: Hiring managers are busy. Get straight to the point and avoid lengthy paragraphs.
• Proofread Carefully: Typos and grammatical errors are a major turn-off. Double-check your email before sending it.

Example Follow-Up Emails (Variations)

Here are a few variations to illustrate how to adapt the template:

Example 1: Highlighting a Specific Skill

Subject: Follow-Up: Jane Doe - Marketing Manager Application

Dear [Hiring Manager Name],

I am writing to follow up on my application for the Marketing Manager position, which I submitted on October 26, 2023. I am particularly excited about the opportunity to leverage my expertise in digital marketing and content creation to drive brand awareness and engagement, as outlined in the job description. My experience leading successful social media campaigns at [Previous Company] has equipped me with the skills to excel in this role.

I have attached my resume for your convenience. I am eager to learn more about this opportunity and discuss how my qualifications can benefit your team.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,
Jane Doe

Example 2: Referencing a Company Value

Subject: Follow-Up: John Smith - Software Engineer Application

Dear Hiring Team,

I am writing to follow up on my application for the Software Engineer position, which I submitted on October 25, 2023. I was particularly impressed by [Company Name]'s commitment to innovation and its focus on developing cutting-edge technology. My passion for creating efficient and scalable solutions aligns perfectly with your company's values.

I have attached my resume for your convenience. I am eager to learn more about this role and discuss how my skills in [mention specific technologies] can contribute to your team's success.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,
John Smith

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using a Generic Subject Line: A vague subject line like "Following Up" is easily overlooked.
• Being Too Pushy or Demanding: Maintain a polite and professional tone.
• Repeating Your Entire Resume: Briefly highlight key qualifications, but don't rehash everything.
• Sending Multiple Follow-Ups in Quick Succession: Patience is key.
• Forgetting to Proofread: Errors reflect poorly on your attention to detail.

Resources & Further Reading

For more information on job searching and application best practices, consult these resources:

• IRS.gov - Tax Information for Employees: While not directly related to job applications, understanding your tax obligations as an employee is important. https://www.irs.gov/individuals/tax-information-for-employees
• Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS): Provides data and analysis on employment trends. https://www.bls.gov/
• LinkedIn: A valuable platform for networking and job searching. https://www.linkedin.com/

Download Your Free Follow-Up Email Template!

Ready to boost your job application success? Download your free, customizable follow up email template after sending resume here: Follow Up Email After Sending Resume Examples Download

Conclusion

Sending a well-crafted job application follow-up email is a simple yet powerful strategy to increase your chances of landing an interview. By following the tips and utilizing the template provided, you can demonstrate your enthusiasm, reinforce your qualifications, and stay top-of-mind with hiring managers. Remember to personalize your email, proofread carefully, and be patient. Good luck with your job search!

Disclaimer: This article and the provided template are for informational purposes only and do not constitute legal advice. Consult with a qualified legal or career professional for advice tailored to your specific situation.