Not hearing back after applying for a job can be frustrating and leave candidates wondering whether to follow up. Knowing the right person to contact—and how to approach them—can help you get answers while maintaining professionalism.

Step 1: Wait a Reasonable Amount of Time

For most roles, it’s best to wait 7–14 days after submitting your application before following up. This allows recruiters time to review candidates and progress through early screening steps.

Step 2: Identify the Right Contact

• If you applied through a recruiter: Contact them directly—they act as your liaison.

• If you applied directly to a company: Look for the HR or talent acquisition contact listed in the job posting.

• If no name is provided: Use LinkedIn or the company’s “About Us” or “Careers” page to find the hiring manager or recruiter for that department.

Step 3: Craft a Professional Message

When reaching out:

• Mention the position you applied for and the date of your application.

• Express continued interest in the role.

• Ask politely if there’s an update on your application status.

Example:

Dear [Name],
I hope this message finds you well. I applied for the [Job Title] position on [Date] and wanted to follow up to see if there have been any updates. I remain very interested in this opportunity and would be happy to provide any additional information you may need.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Best regards,
[Your Name]

Step 4: Keep It Professional and Patient

If you don’t receive a response after your follow-up, it’s best to move on while keeping the door open for future opportunities with the company.

What Not to Do

• Don’t follow up multiple times in the same week.

• Avoid expressing frustration or impatience.

• Don’t demand a specific decision date—recruiting timelines vary.

Conclusion

Following up shows initiative, but it’s important to be respectful of recruiters’ time and workloads. By reaching out to the right contact at the right time, you increase your chances of getting an update without jeopardizing your candidacy.