The Power of Follow-Up: How My Client Landed a Director-Level Position After Proactive Inquiry

How critical is it to follow up on job applications?

I have a client who secured a Director-level position after following up. She had received an auto-acceptance email but her application was not in the system.

The job application process can be overwhelming, but it's important to remember that it doesn't end with just submitting your resume and cover letter. Following up after your application can make a significant impact on the outcome and set you apart from other candidates, even at the executive level. Remember, your time is valuable too.

Besides my story, here are three examples of why following up is crucial:

1. 𝗦𝗵𝗼𝘄𝘀 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗜𝗻𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗮𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗜𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘁: Following up shows that you are proactive, engaged and serious about the opportunity. This can make a great first impression and demonstrate your eagerness to be considered.

2. 𝗞𝗲𝗲𝗽𝘀 𝗬𝗼𝘂 𝗧𝗼𝗽 𝗼𝗳 𝗠𝗶𝗻𝗱: With hundreds of applicants for a single role, it's easy for your application to get lost in the shuffle (though your resume should help you stand out). Following up helps to keep your name and qualifications fresh in the hiring manager's mind, increasing your chances of getting noticed.

3. 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝘃𝗶𝗱𝗲𝘀 𝗮𝗻 𝗢𝗽𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗙𝗲𝗲𝗱𝗯𝗮𝗰𝗸: Following up gives you a chance to ask for feedback on your application, and to discuss any concerns or questions the employer may have. This can help you identify areas to improve and make a stronger impression in future applications.

I guide clients to follow up one week after a job application - if you haven't heard from a real human yet. If you don't hear back, follow up in another few days, and then stop - it likely isn't worth your time at that point. Keeping a spreadsheet can help you to manage follow-up dates.

Following up after a job application is a smart move that can make all the difference in securing your dream role.

Don't be afraid to reach out and inquire about the status of your application.