Cover Letter Follow-Up: Tips for a Polite and Effective Reminder (Template Included!)

Cover Letter Follow-Up: Tips for a Polite and Effective Reminder (Template Included!)

Keywords: cover letter follow-up, job application, interview request, hiring process, patience, persistence, professionalism, thank-you note, networking, LinkedIn, email etiquette

You've submitted your application, including a compelling cover letter, and now the waiting game begins. While patience is a virtue, a well-timed follow-up can gently nudge your application back to the top of the pile. Here's how to craft a polite and effective follow-up that demonstrates your continued interest and professionalism.

1. Timing is Everything:

• Wait for the appropriate timeframe: Generally, it's best to wait a week to 10 days after submitting your application before sending a follow-up.
• Consider the job posting: If the posting specifies a timeframe for responses, adhere to that schedule.
• Check the company website: Some companies may have information about their hiring process on their website, which can provide clues about typical response times.

2. The Art of the Follow-Up Email:

• Keep it concise and professional: Get straight to the point and maintain a professional tone.
• Reiterate your interest: Briefly reiterate your strong interest in the position and the company.
• Highlight a key qualification: Gently remind the hiring manager of a specific skill or experience that makes you a strong candidate.
• Express your availability: Confirm your availability for an interview and provide alternative dates and times if possible.
• End with a polite closing: Thank the hiring manager for their time and consideration.

3. The Follow-Up Email Template:

Subject: Following Up - [Your Name] - Application for [Job Title]

Dear [Hiring Manager Name],

I am writing to follow up on my application for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name], which I submitted on [Date].

In my application, I highlighted my experience in [mention a specific skill or achievement], which I believe would be a valuable asset to your team. I am particularly excited about [mention something specific about the company or the role].

I am available for an interview at your earliest convenience and have attached my updated resume for your review.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,

[Your Name] [Phone Number] [Email Address] [LinkedIn Profile URL (Optional)]

4. Beyond Email:

• LinkedIn: If you have a connection with the hiring manager on LinkedIn, you can send a brief and professional InMail message to reiterate your interest.
• Networking: Leverage your network to see if you have any connections within the company.

5. Patience and Persistence:

• Don't bombard the hiring manager: Avoid sending multiple follow-up emails. One or two polite reminders are usually sufficient.
• Maintain a positive attitude: The hiring process can take time. Stay positive and continue your job search while you wait for a response.

Important Note: While a follow-up can be beneficial, it's crucial to maintain a professional and respectful tone throughout the process. Avoid sounding demanding or impatient.

By following these tips and using the provided template, you can craft effective follow-up emails that demonstrate your continued interest and increase your chances of securing an interview.

How often should you follow up? and wait for their response.

It's generally recommended to wait at least one week after submitting your job application before sending a follow-up email. This gives the hiring manager ample time to review your application.

If you haven't heard back within two weeks, a follow-up is appropriate.

Key Considerations:

• Job Posting: If the job posting specifies a timeframe for responses, adhere to that schedule.
• Company Website: Some companies may have information about their hiring process on their website, which can provide clues about typical response times.

Important Note: Avoid bombarding the hiring manager with multiple follow-up emails. One or two polite reminders are usually sufficient.

Disclaimer: This blog post provides general career advice. For personalized guidance, consult with a career counselor or professional resume writer.