Mastering the Art of Following Up: Get Noticed, Get Hired

You've found the perfect gig, sent off your killer application, and now you're staring at your inbox, refreshing like it's a new Olympic sport. Let's chat about the next step to keep your application from getting lost in the digital pile: the follow-up email.

Why Follow-Up Emails Matter

Imagine this: the hiring manager is drowning in a sea of applications, trying to find the perfect candidate. Your follow-up email pops up in their inbox, a friendly nudge that says, "Hey, remember me? I'm still here and excited about this opportunity." This small action can be the difference between your application getting lost in the shuffle or moving to the top of the pile.

The Power of Persistence

A well-crafted follow-up email shows your proactivity, communication skills, and attention to detail—all qualities that employers value. It demonstrates that you're not just sitting back and waiting for things to happen but actively taking steps to achieve your goals.

Timing is Everything

Timing is crucial when it comes to follow-ups. Wait about one week after submitting your application before reaching out. This gives the hiring manager time to review your application and shows that you're genuinely interested in the position.

When Not to Follow Up

Sometimes job postings might explicitly state not to contact the company regarding your application. If that's the case, respect their request. It can be stressful not hearing back, but patience is often the best approach.

Crafting the Perfect Follow-Up Email

Keep It Short and Sweet

Your follow-up email should be concise. The hiring manager doesn't need a novel, just a friendly reminder of who you are and why you're excited about the position. Aim for a few concise paragraphs that get straight to the point.

Personalize Your Message

Address the hiring manager by name, if possible, and mention the specific job you're applying for. This shows you've done your homework and are genuinely interested in this particular role.

Highlight Your Skills

Remind the hiring manager of the key skills and experiences that make you a strong candidate. Don't just rehash your resume—instead, pick a couple of your most relevant and impressive qualifications to highlight.

Express Your Enthusiasm

Make it clear that you're still enthusiastic about the opportunity. Even if some time has passed since you initially applied, reiterate that this role is still at the top of your list.

Sample Follow-Up Email Template

Here's a template to get you started:

Subject: Following Up on [Position] Application

Hi [Hiring Manager's Name],

I hope you're well. I recently applied for the [Position] role at [Company Name] and wanted to follow up on my application. I'm very excited about the opportunity to join your team and contribute my [relevant skills] to help achieve [Company Name]'s goals.

Please let me know if there's any additional information I can provide. I look forward to the possibility of discussing this position further.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

Best Practices for Sending a Follow-Up Email

Choose the Right Time

Avoid sending your email at odd hours. Sending it during regular business hours shows professionalism and respect for the recipient's time.

Proofread Before Sending

Your email is a reflection of your communication skills, so make sure it's free of typos and grammatical errors. Use tools like Grammarly or Hemingway to polish your message.

Be Prepared for a Response

When you follow up, be ready for any response. This could be an invitation to an interview or a request for more information. Respond promptly and professionally.

Keep Your Job Search Moving

While it's essential to follow up, don't put all your eggs in one basket. Keep applying for other positions to increase your chances of finding the right opportunity. This proactive approach will help you maintain momentum during the application process.

Following up on a job application is a crucial step in the job-seeking process. With the right approach, you can make a positive impression and increase your chances of landing that dream gig. So, get that inbox buzzing and take a step closer to your freelance dreams!