You spent hours perfecting your resume and clicked “Submit” on your dream job. Then… silence. Days turn into weeks with no response.
Here’s the truth: 75% of freshers never follow up after job applications. They think silence means rejection. But recruiters receive thousands of applications for one position—your resume might be buried under hundreds of others.
One simple, polite follow-up email can bring your application back to the top. Research shows candidates who follow up get 40% more responses from companies.
This guide teaches you
- When to follow up after job application
- How to write professional follow-up emails
- 6+ ready-to-use email templates
- Common mistakes to avoid
Let’s turn that silence into interview calls.
Why Following Up Matters
Real Benefits:
1. Shows Genuine Interest When you follow up after job application, recruiters see you care about THEIR company specifically—not just mass-applying everywhere.
2. Brings Your Resume Back Your application might have been reviewed during a busy Monday or went to spam. Your follow up after job application is a professional reminder.
3. Increases Response Rate by 40% Only 2% of candidates follow up after job application, but they get 40% more responses than others.
4. Demonstrates Professional Skills Following up after job application properly shows communication skills, professional etiquette, and time management—qualities companies value.
Before following up, ensure your resume is ATS-friendly and properly formatted. Check our guide on how to write a resume for freshers that gets past applicant tracking systems.
What Happens Behind the Scenes
- Average recruiter receives 250 applications for one job
- They spend only 7 seconds reviewing each resume initially
| A study by TheLadders found that recruiters spend an average of 6-7 seconds on initial resume screening, making your follow-up crucial to get a second look. |
- 88% of recruiters appreciate professional follow-ups
- Hiring typically takes 2-4 weeks, but recruiters often forget to update candidates
Common Myths Debunked
❌ “Following up will irritate recruiters”
✅ Reality: Professional follow-ups are welcomed; daily spam irritates them
❌ “If they want me, they’ll call”
✅ Reality: Your application might be missed; follow up after job application gives a second chance
❌ “Following up shows desperation”
✅ Reality: It shows seriousness and genuine interest
When to Follow Up After Job Application – Perfect Timing
Timing is everything. Too early = pushy. Too late = position filled.
Simple Timeline:
- Day 0: Submit application
- Day 7-10: Send first follow-up ✅ (BEST TIME)
- Day 14-16: Send second follow-up (if no reply)
- Day 21-23: Send final follow-up, then move on
Different Situations:
1. Company Mentioned Timeline, If job post says “We’ll reply in 2 weeks,” wait 2 weeks + 2-3 extra days.
- Job post: “Review by January 15”
- You follow up: January 18-19
2. No Timeline Mentioned (Most Common, Golden Rule: Wait 7-10 working days, then follow up.
Why this works:
- Week 1: Recruiter collects applications
- Day 7-10: They start reviewing—perfect timing for your follow-up
3. After Interview
- Thank you email: Within 24 hours
- Status follow up after job application: Wait 5-7 days (if timeline mentioned) or 3-5 days (if not)
4. LinkedIn Applications LinkedIn moves faster. Follow up after 5-7 days via LinkedIn message or email.
5. Campus Placements Campus recruiters work quickly. Follow up after 3-5 days.
6. Referral Applications If someone referred you, follow up after 5-7 days and mention the referral.
When NOT to Follow Up:
❌ Within 2 days of applying (too soon)
❌ On weekends or holidays (gets lost)
❌ More than 3 times for the same job (becomes spam)
❌ If they said “Don’t contact us”
❌ After receiving rejection email
How to Follow Up After Job Application Professionally
7 Golden Rules to follow after job application submitted
Rule 1: Use the Correct Method
Applied via email → Follow up via email
Applied via company website → Email HR
Applied via LinkedIn → LinkedIn message works best
| Smart Tip: LinkedIn messages get opened more than emails. |
Rule 2: Keep It Short (Under 150 Words)
Recruiters are busy. Respect their time.
Simple Structure:
- Greet professionally
- State why you’re writing (following up on [Job Title])
- Show your value (1 line only)
- Ask politely for status update
- Thank and close
Rule 3: Professional but Friendly Tone
❌ Too Casual: “Hey! Did you see my CV?
❌ Too Formal: “I humbly request you to kindly review…”
✅ Just Right: “I wanted to follow up on my Software Developer application submitted on January 3rd.”
Rule 4: Always Include
- Exact job title
- Job ID number (if given)
- Date you applied
- Your full name
Rule 5: Don’t Resend Files
Your first application has your resume. Don’t send again unless specifically asked.
What to Include:
✅ Clear subject line with job title/ID
✅ Exact position name
✅ Application date
✅ One sentence showing you’re a good fit
✅ Polite request for update
✅ Professional closing with contact details
What to Avoid:
❌ Generic “Just checking in” messages
❌ Desperate tone (“Please reply, I need a job”)
❌ Complaining about no response
❌ Multiple exclamation marks!!!
❌ WRITING IN CAPS
❌ Casual language (“Hey buddy”)
Rule 6: Follow Up During Office Hours
Send emails between 9 AM-5 PM on weekdays. Weekend emails get buried under Monday morning rush.
Best Days & Times:
Best Days: Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday
Best Times:
- 10 AM-12 PM (morning, when recruiters are fresh)
- 2 PM-3 PM (post-lunch, before meetings)
Avoid:
- Monday mornings (too many emails after weekend)
- Friday evenings (weekend mood)
- Before 9 AM or after 5 PM
- Lunch time (12-1 PM)
City Time Zone Tip: If the company is in a different city, send according to their time zone, not yours.
Rule 7: Show Continued Interest
Don’t just ask for updates—show you’re still researching and interested in the company.
How to do this:
- Mention recent company news (“I saw your recent Series B funding announcement”)
- Reference new projects (“I noticed you launched a new product line”)
- Share relevant achievement (“I recently completed a certification in React that would help in this role”)
- Connect with company updates (“Your recent blog post about microservices architecture was insightful”)
Example in follow-up: “I recently read about [Company]’s expansion into AI solutions and it increased my excitement about potentially joining your innovative team.”
6 Email Templates to Follow Up After Job Application
Template 1: First Follow Up after job application (Standard)
Use 7-10 days after applying
| Subject: Following Up – Software Developer Position (Job ID: 12345)
Dear [Hiring Manager Name/Hiring Team], I hope you are doing well. I applied for the Software Developer position (Job ID: 12345) on January 3rd and wanted to follow up on my application status. I am very excited about working with [Company Name], especially your [mention specific project]. My experience with React, Node.js, and web applications aligns well with your requirements. I understand you are reviewing many applications. If you need any additional information, I’m happy to provide it. Thank you for your time. Best regards, |
Why This Works:
- Clear subject with job ID
- Shows company research
- Professional yet friendly
- Offers help without demanding
- Complete contact information
Template 2: Second Follow-Up
Use if first follow up after job application gets no response after 5-7 days
| Subject: Re: Software Developer Position – Application Status
Dear [Hiring Manager Name], I wanted to reach out once more about my application for the Software Developer role submitted on January 3rd. I remain very interested in this opportunity and believe my skills in React, Node.js, and AWS would benefit your team. If the position is filled or my application is no longer being considered, please let me know so I can focus my job search accordingly. Thank you for your time. Best regards, |
Why This Works:
- References previous email (shows patience)
- Maintains interest without desperation
- Gives them an easy out
- Still polite and professional
Template 3: After Interview Thank You
Send within 24 hours of interview
| Subject: Thank You – Software Developer Interview on January 10th
Dear [Interviewer Name], Thank you for meeting with me for the Software Developer position yesterday. I enjoyed our discussion about [specific topic – like your microservices architecture]. Our conversation about [specific project] increased my excitement about joining [Company Name]. I’m particularly interested in [something specific they mentioned]. I believe my experience with [relevant skill/project] will help me contribute quickly to your team. Please let me know if you need any additional information. I look forward to the next steps. Thank you again. Best regards, |
Following up after an interview is just the first step. Prepare for what comes next with our top 15 interview questions and answers for freshers to ace your next round.
Template 4: LinkedIn Follow-Up Message
Use when applied through LinkedIn
| Hi [Recruiter Name],
I recently applied for [Job Title] at [Company Name] (Job ID: 12345) and wanted to express my strong interest. With my background in [2-3 relevant skills/projects], I believe I’d fit well with your team. I’m especially excited about [specific company aspect]. Could you share any updates on the hiring timeline or next steps? Thank you! Best regards, |
Pro Tip: Your LinkedIn profile is often the first thing recruiters check after receiving
your follow-up. Make sure it’s optimized with our complete LinkedIn profile optimization guide for freshers
Why This Works:
- Personal and direct
- Short (LinkedIn messages should be brief)
- Shows specific interest
- Easy for recruiter to reply
Template 5: Referral Follow-Up
When someone referred you internally
| Subject: Following Up – [Job Title] Application (Referred by [Name])
Dear [Hiring Manager], I hope this email finds you well. I applied for the [Job Title] position on [Date] through a referral from [Referrer Full Name] in the [Department] team. I wanted to follow up and reaffirm my strong interest. With my experience in [relevant skills], especially [specific project], I’m confident I can contribute effectively to [Company Name]. Please let me know if you need any additional information. Thank you for considering my application. Best regards, |
Template 6: Final Follow Up after job application (Graceful Closure)
Use as your third and last follow-up
| Subject: Final Follow-Up – [Job Title] Application
Dear [Hiring Manager], I wanted to reach out one last time about my application for [Job Title] submitted on [Date]. I understand hiring takes time and positions may already be filled. If that’s the case, I would appreciate any feedback that could help me in the future. Regardless of the outcome for this role, I remain interested in [Company Name] and would welcome the chance to be considered for future openings. Thank you for your time throughout this process. Best regards, |
Why This Works:
- Graceful exit (shows maturity)
- Asks for feedback (shows growth mindset)
- Keeps door open for future
- Leaves positive impression
Do’s and Don’ts
DO’s:
✅ Personalize Every Email – Research the company, mention specific projects
✅ Check Spelling & Grammar – Use Grammarly or read aloud before sending
✅ Use Professional Email – yourname@gmail.com ✅ | rockstar2002@yahoo.com ❌
| For more professional email etiquette tips, check out Indeed guide on professional email communication |
✅ Send at Right Time – Tuesday-Thursday, 10 AM-12 PM or 2-3 PM
✅ Keep It Short – 100-150 words maximum
✅ Include All Contact Info – Phone, email, LinkedIn URL
✅ Be Patient – Wait 5-7 days between follow-ups
DON’Ts:
❌ Generic Emails – “Just checking in” tells recruiters you sent this to 50 companies
❌ Be Pushy – “I need a response by Friday” = instant rejection
❌ Follow Up Daily – This is spam, not persistence
❌ Long Stories – Keep it concise
❌ Casual Language – No “Hey,” “Bro,” “Dude”
❌ Night/Weekend Emails – Looks unprofessional
❌ Mention Other Offers – Sounds manipulative
❌ Use ALL CAPS!!! – Unprofessional and desperate
Common Mistakes Freshers Make
Mistake 1: Following Up Too Soon
❌ Monday: Apply | Tuesday: “Did you get my application?”
✅ Do Instead: Wait minimum 7 days
Mistake 2: Being Too Casual
❌ “Hey! Did u check my resume? Link soon
✅ Do Instead: Professional greetings, complete words, formal tone
Mistake 3: Same Template for Everyone
❌ Generic copy-paste to all companies
✅ Do Instead: Customize with specific job title, company name, relevant skills
Customizing your application starts with a strong cover letter. Learn how to write an impressive cover letter that complements your follow-up emails.
Mistake 4: Never Following Up
75% of freshers never follow up = missed 40% better response rate
✅ Do Instead: Set reminders to follow up 7-10 days after each application
Mistake 5: Too Many Follow-Ups
❌ Day 2, 4, 7, 9 = harassment
✅ Do Instead: Maximum 3 follow-ups, 5-7 days apart
Useful Tools & Resources
Email Tracking:
- Mailtrack (Free for Gmail) – Shows when emails are opened
- HubSpot Email Tracking – Tracks opens and clicks
- Streak – Email tracking + application management
Finding Recruiter Emails:
- LinkedIn – Search “[Company] recruiter”
- Hunter.io – 50 free searches/month
- Company Website – Check Careers/Team section
Application Tracking:
Create a simple spreadsheet
| Company | Position | Applied Date | Follow-Up Dates | Status | Notes |
Conclusion & Action Plan
A well-timed follow up after job application email can,
- Pull your application from the buried pile
- Show genuine interest to recruiters
- Increase response rate by 40%
- Build relationships even without getting the job
Your Immediate Action Plan:
Step 1: List all applications from the last 2 weeks
Step 2: Identify which crossed the 7-10 day mark
Step 3: Research those companies (10 minutes each)
Step 4: Customize a template from this guide
Step 5: Send during optimal time (Tue-Thu, 10 AM-12 PM)
Your Challenge: Before closing this page, send ONE follow-up email using the templates above. Right now.
Worst case? They don’t reply (already happening).
Best case? You get your dream job.
Remember: Follow up after a job application isn’t pushy—it’s professional, persistent, and shows real interest.
FAQs For Follow Up After Job Application
Q1: How many times should I follow up after job application?
Maximum 3 times, spaced 5-7 days apart:
- First: 7-10 days after applying
- Second: 5-7 days after first
- Final: 5-7 days after second
Q2: Should I call the company or only email?
Stick to emails unless the job post says to call or you have a referral suggesting it. Most recruiters prefer email.
Q3: What if I don’t know the hiring manager’s name?
Use “Dear Hiring Team” or “Dear [Company] Recruitment Team.” Better: Spend 5 minutes on LinkedIn finding the actual recruiter’s name.
Q4: Should I follow up if I applied through Naukri or Indeed?
Yes, but differently. Check the portal first, then find the company’s direct email or LinkedIn after 7-10 days.
Q5: Can I follow up on weekends?
Write the email but schedule it to send on a weekday morning. Weekend emails get buried.
Q6: LinkedIn or email—which is better for follow-ups?
- LinkedIn: If you applied via LinkedIn, have mutual connections, or the company is active there
- Email: If you applied via website, formal company, or have direct HR email
- Best: Do both, 2-3 days apart
Q7: They said “position filled”—what now?
Reply politely, thank them, express continued interest in the company, ask about future roles, and connect on LinkedIn. Many freshers get interviews months later.
Q8: Is the LinkedIn “Open to Work” banner helpful?
Yes! Profiles with the green banner get 40% more recruiter views. Enable it in Profile → Open to Work.
Career guidance writer at Talent Clarity with hands-on experience in resume screening, ATS behavior analysis, and fresher job applications. Over time, has worked closely with real hiring patterns and common candidate mistakes, focusing on creating ATS-friendly resumes, effective job strategies, and practical interview preparation that help candidates convert applications into interview calls.
