Follow Up Letter Template After Sending Resume

Crafting a compelling resume and sending it out into the job market is a crucial first step, but it's rarely the last. Following up with a concise and well-written letter can significantly increase your chances of landing an interview. A follow-up demonstrates your continued interest in the position and allows you to reiterate your key qualifications, address any potential concerns, and leave a lasting positive impression on the hiring manager. This template provides a structured and professional framework to help you create effective follow-up letters that stand out.

This template is designed to be adaptable to various situations, whether you're following up after applying online, networking with someone at a career fair, or even after already having an initial conversation. It includes key sections for expressing your gratitude, reiterating your qualifications, highlighting your enthusiasm, and clearly stating your desired next steps. Remember to tailor each letter to the specific role and company you're targeting to ensure maximum impact. A personalized approach shows you've taken the time to understand their needs and how you can contribute.

Why a follow up letter after resume submission is crucial

Submitting your resume is only the first step in the job application process. A follow-up letter (or email) significantly increases your chances of landing an interview. It demonstrates your proactive nature, genuine interest in the role and company, and provides an opportunity to reinforce your key qualifications. In today's competitive job market, taking this extra step can set you apart from other candidates who simply rely on their resume to speak for itself.

A well-crafted follow-up allows you to reiterate your enthusiasm for the position, highlight specific skills or experiences that align with the job requirements, and address any potential concerns that the hiring manager might have. Consider it a second chance to make a strong first impression and tailor your message to the specific needs of the employer. It’s a strategic way to ensure your application remains top-of-mind.

Furthermore, sending a follow-up shows respect for the hiring manager's time and acknowledges the effort they're putting into reviewing applications. It’s a subtle yet powerful way to build rapport and establish a connection before the interview stage. In many cases, a simple thank-you note can be the deciding factor between two equally qualified candidates.

Key elements of an effective follow up letter

A well-crafted follow-up letter is crucial after submitting your resume. It demonstrates your continued interest in the position and provides an opportunity to reiterate your qualifications and address any concerns the hiring manager might have. Think of it as a second chance to make a strong first impression.

Key elements of an effective follow-up letter include a concise and professional tone. Start by thanking the hiring manager for their time and consideration. Then, briefly remind them of the specific position you applied for and the date you submitted your resume. Avoid simply restating information from your resume; instead, highlight key skills and experiences that are particularly relevant to the job description and explain why you are a good fit for the company.

Furthermore, use the follow-up letter to address any specific requirements or concerns mentioned in the job posting. Show that you've carefully researched the company and understand their needs. Quantify your achievements whenever possible, using data and metrics to demonstrate the impact you've made in previous roles. Finally, reiterate your enthusiasm for the opportunity and express your availability for an interview. Proofread carefully for any errors in grammar or spelling.

Here's a summary of essential elements to incorporate:

• Gratitude: Thank the hiring manager for their time and consideration.
• Reference: Clearly state the position you applied for and the application date.
• Relevance: Highlight key skills and experiences directly relevant to the role.
• Quantifiable Achievements: Use numbers and data to showcase your impact.
• Enthusiasm: Express your genuine interest in the opportunity and the company.
• Call to Action: Clearly state your availability for an interview.
• Proofreading: Ensure impeccable grammar and spelling.

By incorporating these elements into your follow-up letter, you can significantly increase your chances of securing an interview and advancing in the hiring process. A proactive and well-executed follow-up demonstrates your professionalism, initiative, and genuine interest in the role.

Crafting a compelling subject line

The subject line of your follow-up email is arguably the most critical element in securing a response. It's the first, and often only, opportunity to capture the recruiter's or hiring manager's attention amidst a deluge of emails. A generic subject line, like "Following Up" or "Checking In," is unlikely to stand out and might even lead to your email being overlooked or deleted. Therefore, crafting a subject line that is both compelling and informative is essential.

A strong subject line should immediately convey the purpose of your email and remind the recipient of your previous interaction. Consider incorporating keywords that resonate with the specific role you applied for or highlight a unique aspect of your application. Avoid using overly creative or ambiguous language that could confuse the recipient or appear unprofessional. Clarity and conciseness are key.

Here are a few strategies for crafting effective subject lines for your follow-up email after sending your resume:

• Reference the specific job title: "Following Up: [Job Title] Application - [Your Name]"
• Highlight a key skill or qualification: "[Your Name] - [Job Title] Application: [Key Skill] Expertise"
• Mention a referral or previous conversation: "Following Up on [Job Title] Application - Referred by [Referral Name]" or "Following Up: Our Conversation on [Date] Regarding [Job Title]"
• Quantify your impact: "[Your Name] - [Job Title] Application: Improved X by Y% at [Previous Company]"
• Express Enthusiasm: "Enthusiastic [Job Title] Candidate - [Your Name]"

Remember to tailor your subject line to the specific company and role you're applying for. Researching the company culture and the recruiter's communication style can help you craft a subject line that resonates with them and increases the likelihood of a positive response. Always proofread your subject line carefully before sending the email to ensure there are no typos or grammatical errors.

Ultimately, the goal of your subject line is to pique the recipient's interest and encourage them to open your email. By crafting a subject line that is clear, concise, and compelling, you can significantly increase your chances of securing an interview and advancing in the hiring process.

Personalizing the letter to the recipient/company

Personalizing your follow-up letter demonstrates genuine interest in the specific role and company. It shows you've done your research and aren't just sending out generic applications. A tailored approach significantly increases your chances of making a positive impression and securing an interview.

Start by addressing the hiring manager directly whenever possible. Research the company's website, LinkedIn, or use professional networking to identify the correct contact person. Using their name (e.g., "Dear Mr. Smith") shows you've taken the initiative. If you can't find a specific name, use a general title like "Dear Hiring Manager" or "Dear [Department Name] Team."

Refer to specific aspects of the company or role that resonate with you. Mention a recent company achievement, a project that aligns with your skills, or a value they emphasize that you share. For example, "I was particularly impressed by [Company]'s recent work on [Project], which aligns with my experience in [Relevant Skill]." Or, "I am drawn to [Company]'s commitment to [Value], as demonstrated by [Example]." Highlighting these connections strengthens your application and demonstrates your understanding of the company culture and goals.

Finally, tailor your accomplishments to the specific requirements outlined in the job description. Reiterate how your skills and experience directly address the needs of the role. Briefly mention a relevant achievement that showcases your abilities and quantifies your impact whenever possible. This reinforces your qualifications and demonstrates the value you can bring to the company. Avoid simply repeating your resume; instead, expand on a key skill or experience that directly relates to the job.

Showcasing continued interest and highlighting skills

Following up after submitting your resume is a crucial step in demonstrating your continued interest and reinforcing your suitability for the role. Your follow-up letter provides another opportunity to highlight key skills and experiences that align with the job description, making a stronger impression on the hiring manager. This is your chance to reiterate your enthusiasm and proactively address any potential concerns they might have.

One effective strategy is to refer back to specific requirements mentioned in the job posting and directly connect them to your qualifications. For instance, if the role emphasizes project management skills, you could briefly describe a successful project you led, quantifying your achievements whenever possible. Quantifiable results are always more impactful than simply listing responsibilities. Use strong action verbs to showcase your capabilities and make it easy for the recruiter to see how you can contribute to their team.

Furthermore, use this follow-up to expand on a point mentioned briefly in your resume or cover letter. Perhaps you developed a novel solution to a challenge, or implemented a process that significantly improved efficiency. Providing additional context and details demonstrates your problem-solving abilities and showcases your commitment to excellence. Remember to keep it concise and focused, respecting the hiring manager's time.

Beyond skills and experience, the follow-up letter also allows you to reiterate your understanding of the company's mission and values. Briefly mention something specific that resonates with you and explain how your personal values align with theirs. This shows you've done your research and are genuinely interested in the company culture, further demonstrating your strong fit for the organization.

Resume Example: follow up letter template after sending resume

Below is a simple and clean resume example tailored to follow up letter template after sending resume. Replace placeholder details with your own achievements.

Timing and frequency of follow up

Determining the optimal timing and frequency for following up after sending your resume is crucial. Following up too soon or too often can be perceived as pushy or even annoying, potentially damaging your chances. Conversely, waiting too long may signal a lack of interest or allow your application to be forgotten among the many others the hiring manager receives. A balanced approach is key to staying top-of-mind without being intrusive.

A general guideline is to wait approximately one week (5-7 business days) after submitting your resume and cover letter before sending your first follow-up. This gives the hiring manager ample time to review applications and begin the selection process. If the job posting explicitly states a timeline for the hiring process, such as "candidates will be contacted within two weeks," adjust your follow-up schedule accordingly. After the first follow-up, if you still haven't received a response, consider sending a second and final follow-up email approximately one to two weeks later. Keep each follow-up concise and professional, reiterating your interest in the position and highlighting key skills or experiences that align with the job requirements.

It's also important to consider the industry and company culture. Some industries or companies might be more responsive than others. Researching the company's typical hiring process, if possible, can provide valuable insights. If you have a contact within the company, leveraging that connection for a gentle inquiry can be more effective than a cold email. Remember to always track your applications and follow-up attempts meticulously. This will help you stay organized and avoid sending duplicate or premature follow-ups. If you receive an automated response acknowledging receipt of your application, take that into account when planning your follow-up schedule.

Tone and professional etiquette

Maintaining a professional and courteous tone in your follow-up letter is crucial. Remember that you are trying to reinforce your initial application and demonstrate your continued interest in the position. Avoid being demanding or entitled; instead, express your enthusiasm and reiterate your qualifications subtly. Use language that is polite and respectful, and proofread carefully to eliminate any errors in grammar or spelling that could detract from your credibility.

Timing is also a key component of professional etiquette. Generally, it's advisable to send a follow-up email approximately one week after submitting your resume. This allows the hiring manager sufficient time to review applications without feeling pressured. If the job posting specified a deadline for applications or a timeframe for hearing back, adhere to that schedule. If you've interviewed, a thank-you note sent within 24 hours is considered standard practice, followed by a follow-up email about a week later if you haven't heard back regarding the next steps.

Be mindful of the content of your follow-up. Keep it concise and focused, typically no more than a few paragraphs. Reiterate your interest in the position and briefly highlight your key qualifications and skills that align with the job requirements. You can also mention any new developments or achievements that have occurred since you submitted your resume. It's perfectly acceptable to subtly inquire about the hiring timeline, but avoid sounding impatient or pushy. Close the letter by thanking the hiring manager for their time and consideration, and express your eagerness to hear from them soon.

Specifically, avoid aggressive or accusatory language. For example, stating "I haven't heard back, and I expect an update immediately" is highly unprofessional. A more appropriate approach would be "I understand you are likely reviewing many applications, but I wanted to reiterate my strong interest in this role. I would be grateful for any updates on the hiring timeline when you have them available." Showing empathy and understanding for the hiring manager's workload can make a positive impression.

FAQs

Following up after submitting your resume is crucial, but it often raises several questions. This section aims to address some of the most frequently asked questions regarding follow-up letters and emails, helping you navigate the process with confidence and increase your chances of landing an interview.

When is the right time to send a follow-up? A good rule of thumb is to wait about 5-7 business days after submitting your resume and cover letter before sending a follow-up. Avoid sending it too early, as the hiring manager may not have had time to review applications yet. Waiting longer than two weeks, however, might indicate a lack of interest on your part or allow other candidates to gain an advantage. If the job posting explicitly states a timeframe for responses, adhere to that timeline.

What should I include in my follow-up? Keep your message concise and professional. Reiterate your interest in the position and briefly highlight one or two key qualifications that align with the job description. Refer to your original application and mention the specific job title. You can also subtly reiterate your eagerness to learn more about the role and contribute to the company. Avoid simply asking "Have you reviewed my resume?" Instead, focus on adding value and demonstrating continued enthusiasm.

How many times should I follow up? While persistence is important, it's also essential to avoid being perceived as pushy or annoying. Generally, one follow-up email is sufficient. If you haven't heard back after a week following your initial follow-up, consider that the company may have moved forward with other candidates or is still in the initial stages of the hiring process. In some cases, if you have a strong connection with someone at the company, you could consider a second follow-up, but proceed with caution.

What if I don't have the hiring manager's email address? Try researching on LinkedIn or the company website to find the hiring manager or recruiter's contact information. If that isn't possible, you can address your follow-up email to the Human Resources department or the recruiting team. Using a generic greeting like "Dear Hiring Team" is preferable to guessing at an individual's name and being incorrect.

Closing

We encourage you to regularly update your resume and skills listed on our platform. Keeping your profile current ensures that you're considered for the most relevant opportunities as they arise.

Thank you again for your interest in [Company Name]. We wish you the best of luck in your job search and invite you to revisit our careers page often to explore new openings: [Link to Careers Page].