Template for Following Up on a Job Application via Email

Following up after an application is a vital step in increasing your chance of landing a job interview. Not only does it confirm that the hiring manager or HR department received your application, but it also shows you’re enthusiastic about the opportunity and keeps your name on their mind when reviewing candidates.

When following up via email (or snail mail, though email is usually preferred), reference the follow-up letter template and examples below for an effective way to reach out to the hiring manager.

Format for Writing a Follow-Up Email 

Subject Line: The subject line should convey what the recipient can expect from the email. When following up on a job application, you should keep your subject line brief. Referencing the job title that you applied for is a good idea, especially if the company is hiring multiple positions. Adding your name may be helpful, too.

            For Example: Following Up on Sales Rep Application for Jane Doe

Opening: Research the company on LinkedIn or Google to locate the hiring manager’s name. If you can’t find the hiring manager’s name, keep the opening simple, like “Hello,” or “Dear Hiring Manager.”

            For Example: Dear Mr. Smith,

First Paragraph: Use the first paragraph to state that you are following up on a recently submitted application and you wish to check the status of your resume. Include the date of your application and where you found the posting. Mention your interest in the position you applied to and express enthusiasm.

For Example: I submitted an application on January 17, 2023 for the Sales Representative position with ABC Company, currently advertised on iHireSalesPeople. I would like to inquire about the status of this position, confirm receipt of my resume, and further express my interest in this exciting opportunity.

Second Paragraph: Expand on your interest/desire to work for their company and explain why you are an excellent fit for the position. List your specific skills and how they relate to the job description. Be as specific as possible.

For Example: I’m very interested in working for your company and joining your accomplished sales team. I believe that I bring a unique set of skills that would make me an ideal fit for the position, including extensive outside sales experience, strong closing capabilities, and a track record of increasing revenue within competitive markets.

Closing Paragraph: Thank them for their time and consideration. Let them know that you look forward to hearing from them soon and would love the opportunity to discuss your qualifications further in an interview. Include at least one form of contact information.

For Example: I would be glad to resubmit my application and resume if needed or provide any further information that might be helpful regarding my candidacy. I can be reached at 888-888-8888 or by email at [email protected]. Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you.

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Putting It All Together

Your final email should look something like this:

Feel free to copy and change the necessary parts of that follow-up email template to fit your situation. Generally, you should wait a week before writing a follow-up email to avoid annoying the hiring manager. And be sure to send only one follow-up message for the same reason. If you’d rather follow up by phone, check out this template instead.

Head to our Job Seeker Resource Center for more templates covering every phase of your job search.