How to Follow Up After Submitting a Job Application 2025
Introduction: Why Following Up Matters in 2025
Applying for jobs in 2025 looks very different from a decade ago. With applicant tracking systems (ATS), hybrid work, and AI-powered screening tools, your resume may land in a digital pile of hundreds. But one timeless truth remains: the follow-up can make or break your chances.
A polite, professional follow-up shows employers that you’re proactive, genuinely interested, and respectful of their time. On the other hand, failing to follow up might leave you invisible in a crowded hiring process.
This article will guide you through when, how, and what to say when following up after submitting a job application in 2025. We’ll also cover email templates, recruiter advice, and common mistakes to avoid.
1. Why Following Up After a Job Application Is Important
How to Follow Up After Submitting a Job Application 2025
Many job seekers hesitate to follow up because they worry about annoying recruiters. But according to a 2024 survey by Glassdoor, 68% of hiring managers said they appreciate a well-timed follow-up, as it demonstrates persistence and professionalism.
Here’s why it matters:
- It confirms your application was received.
- It sets you apart from passive candidates.
- It keeps your name fresh in the recruiter’s mind.
- It shows you’re serious about the opportunity.
For more insights into hiring trends, see LinkedIn’s Global Recruiting Report.
2. How Long Should You Wait Before Following Up?
How to Follow Up After Submitting a Job Application 2025
Timing is everything. In most cases, the sweet spot is:
- 5–7 business days after submitting your application.
- 1 week after an interview if you haven’t heard back.
If the job posting specifies a closing date, wait until one week after the deadline before reaching out. This gives HR time to review all applications.
3. Who Should You Contact?
How to Follow Up After Submitting a Job Application 2025
Reaching out to the right person increases your chances of getting a response. Ideally:
- The hiring manager listed in the job ad.
- A recruiter or HR officer handling applications.
- If no contact is listed, check the company website or LinkedIn.
Pro Tip: Use LinkedIn to search for “Talent Acquisition” or “Recruiter” at the company. A polite message there can work just as well as an email.
4. How to Follow Up: Email vs. Phone vs. LinkedIn
How to Follow Up After Submitting a Job Application 2025
Email (Best Option)
Professional, documented, and respectful of time.
Phone Call
Works well for small companies or when instructed in the job ad. Use sparingly.
LinkedIn Message
Great for building relationships. Keep it short and professional.
For sample templates, see our guide on How to Write Motivational Letters for Bursaries in 2025.
5. Sample Email Templates for Following Up
How to Follow Up After Submitting a Job Application 2025
Template 1: Short and Professional
Subject: Job Application Follow-Up – [Your Name]
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I recently applied for the [Job Title] position on [Date] and wanted to confirm my application was received. I am very enthusiastic about this role and would be grateful for any update regarding the next steps in the hiring process.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Template 2: Adding Value
How to Follow Up After Submitting a Job Application 2025
Subject: Application Update Request – [Job Title]
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I hope this message finds you well. I applied for the [Job Title] position on [Date] and remain very interested in joining [Company Name]. Since submitting my application, I have completed [Relevant Certification or Project] that further strengthens my qualifications.
Could you please share any updates on the hiring timeline?
Warm regards,
[Your Name]
6. Common Mistakes to Avoid When Following Up
How to Follow Up After Submitting a Job Application 2025
- Following up too soon (the day after applying).
- Sounding entitled or demanding.
- Sending multiple emails in one week.
- Using casual language (“Hey, just checking in”).
- Forgetting to proofread for spelling/grammar errors.
7. How to Follow Up If You Don’t Have a Contact Person
How to Follow Up After Submitting a Job Application 2025
If no hiring manager is listed, try these options:
- Use a general HR email from the company’s website.
- Call the company and politely ask who is responsible for recruitment.
- Send a LinkedIn message to a recruiter at the company.
When in doubt, address your message to “Hiring Manager” rather than leaving it blank.
8. How to Follow Up After an Interview
How to Follow Up After Submitting a Job Application 2025
Following up after an interview is just as critical. The timeline here is different:
- Send a thank-you email within 24 hours of your interview.
- Follow up again after 1 week if you haven’t heard back.
Example thank-you note:
Subject: Thank You – [Your Name]
Dear [Interviewer’s Name],
Thank you for taking the time to interview me for the [Job Title] role yesterday. I enjoyed our conversation and am excited about the opportunity to contribute to [Company Name]. Please let me know if you need any additional information from me.
Best,
[Your Name]
For interview prep strategies, read our article: Job Interview Questions and How to Answer Them in 2025.
9. Digital Etiquette in 2025: The Role of AI and ATS
How to Follow Up After Submitting a Job Application 2025
With companies using applicant tracking systems and AI screening tools, following up isn’t just about persistence — it’s about strategy.
Tips:
- Always reference the job title and requisition number if listed.
- Keep follow-ups short and easy to scan.
- Avoid attachments unless requested (some systems flag them as spam).
For more on ATS systems, see Indeed’s Guide to Applicant Tracking.
10. Should You Use LinkedIn to Follow Up?
Yes — but carefully. LinkedIn is one of the best tools for networking in 2025. When reaching out:
- Send a connection request with a short note.
- Avoid sending your full resume unless asked.
- Engage with the company’s posts to stay visible.
For building online career presence, also read: Free AI Tools to Enhance and Polish a CV.
11. Following Up Without Sounding Pushy
How to Follow Up After Submitting a Job Application 2025
The balance is key: you want to show interest, not desperation. Use phrases like:
- “I wanted to kindly follow up…”
- “I remain very interested in this opportunity…”
- “Could you please share any updates on the timeline?”
12. Cultural Differences in Following Up
If you’re applying internationally, note these norms:
- US & Canada: Direct follow-ups via email are expected.
- UK: Professional and polite follow-ups are welcome, but avoid calling unless invited.
- South Africa: Similar to the UK, with preference for email follow-ups.
13. How Many Times Should You Follow Up?
How to Follow Up After Submitting a Job Application 2025
As a general rule:
- 1–2 times maximum after submitting your application.
- 1–2 times maximum after interviews.
If you still don’t get a response, move on. Persistence is good, but professionalism is better.
14. Real-Life Example: How a Follow-Up Secured a Job
A candidate applied for a data analyst role in Cape Town in early 2024. After two weeks without a response, she sent a short follow-up email highlighting a recent SQL certification. The recruiter replied within hours, apologizing for the delay, and invited her for an interview. She was hired two weeks later.
This story shows that a professional follow-up can make you stand out at the right time.
15. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How to Follow Up After Submitting a Job Application 2025
Q1: Should I call or email when following up?
Email is safest, but a polite phone call works for smaller companies.
Q2: What if I never hear back?
Don’t take it personally. Move on and keep applying.
Q3: Can following up hurt my chances?
Only if you’re aggressive or follow up too frequently.
Q4: Should I mention salary expectations in a follow-up?
No. Save that for later stages.
Q5: Is it okay to follow up on weekends?
No. Stick to business days and normal office hours.
16. Resources for Job Seekers
- Glassdoor – How to Follow Up After an Application
- Indeed Career Guide
- Internal guide: Department of Labour Jobs in 2025
- Internal guide: Top 20 Websites to Find Jobs in South Africa
Conclusion: The Power of the Follow-Up
How to Follow Up After Submitting a Job Application 2025
In 2025’s competitive job market, submitting your application is only half the battle. A timely, professional follow-up can be the small step that sets you apart from hundreds of applicants.
The keys are simple:
- Wait the right amount of time.
- Contact the right person.
- Keep your message short and professional.
- Follow up once or twice, then move on gracefully.
Remember, following up isn’t about nagging — it’s about showing initiative and respect. Done right, it might just land you the job you’ve been waiting for.