Navigating the job market can feel like traversing a labyrinth, especially when it comes to mastering the subtle art of following up on job applications.

This comprehensive guide sheds light on this crucial yet often overlooked part of the job application process.

We delve into understanding the importance of follow-ups, best practices on how to follow up on a job application, mistakes to avoid, and the art of chasing up a job application when the usual routes hit a dead end.

Understanding the Importance of Follow-Ups in Job Applications

You've carefully crafted your CV, tailored your cover letter, and hit the submit button, your job application has embarked on its journey.

However, your work is far from over. Next comes a vital part of the process that could significantly affect your success: the follow-up.

Following up on a job application might feel intrusive or pushy, but when done right, it can effectively convey your continued interest and enthusiasm for the role.

In fact, it can make the difference between securing an interview or disappearing into the pile of other hopeful applicants.

A well-executed follow-up can demonstrate initiative and assertiveness—two traits many employers value. It also keeps your name and application in the forefront of the employer's mind.

However, it's a fine line to walk. You want to come across as persistent, not pesky. Striking the right balance is key to successfully follow up on a job application.

Moreover, following up ensures you don't get lost in the shuffle. In the vast ocean of job applications, a follow-up can serve as a lifebuoy, keeping your application afloat in a sea of other candidates.

The simple act of reminding the hiring manager of your application can influence your progress through the application process, moving you one step closer to landing that job.

Best Practices on How to Follow Up on a Job Application

Whether you're wondering how to follow up on a job application or looking for ways to optimise your approach, adhering to the following best practices can be your compass guiding you towards a successful follow-up.

Timing of the Follow-Up: 

First things first, timing is everything. Too soon, and you risk coming across as impatient; too late, and you could miss the boat entirely. As a rule of thumb, wait for about a week or two post-application before sending your follow-up. This gives hiring managers sufficient time to review applications while showing your continued interest in the role.

The Different Channels for Follow-Up: 

Email is often the preferred method, providing a formal, documented mode of communication. If the job posting provides a phone number, a call can be a more direct approach. However, be aware of the time you choose to call to avoid causing any inconvenience. LinkedIn can also be a valuable tool to connect and follow up with potential employers.

How to Craft a Polite and Professional Follow-Up Message: 

When crafting your follow-up message, maintain a polite and professional tone. Start by introducing yourself and mentioning the position you applied for and the date of application. Express your continued interest in the role and politely ask for an update on your application status. Always thank the hiring manager for their time and consideration.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Following Up

While follow-ups can potentially tip the scales in your favour, certain missteps might lead to the opposite effect. Avoid these common mistakes to ensure your follow-up enhances your job application rather than hinders it.

Being Overly Persistent: 

While persistence is commendable, being overly so can be off-putting. Avoid sending multiple follow-ups in a short span of time. Remember, hiring managers have numerous applications to go through, and incessant follow-ups can reflect poorly on your professional etiquette.

Using an Informal Tone: 

Regardless of the company culture, maintain a formal tone in your follow-ups. This conveys your professionalism and respect for the hiring process.

Neglecting to Follow Instructions: 

If the job posting specifically asks not to follow up, respect this request. Ignoring such directives might signify an inability to follow instructions, a red flag for potential employers.

How to Chase Up a Job Application

Even with best practices in play, there are times when the conventional follow-up might not get the response you're hoping for. In such scenarios, 'chasing up' on your application becomes necessary. This process requires additional tact, as it could be the difference between demonstrating persistence and appearing desperate.

When to Consider Chasing Up:

Generally, you should consider chasing up if you've not received any communication two weeks after sending your initial follow-up. Remember, hiring processes can vary in length, so patience is key.

Effective Strategies for Chasing Up:

When chasing up, your approach should be respectful yet assertive. You might consider escalating your follow-up to someone higher in the organisation if your contact person hasn't responded. Alternatively, if you have any connections within the company, it may be worth asking them for any insight they may have into the hiring timeline.

Navigating Difficult Situations While Chasing Up:

Always maintain professionalism and respect, even if the response seems slow. Avoid expressing frustration or adopting an aggressive tone. The goal is to show your continued interest in the job, not to annoy the employer.

The Power of Tech in Modern Job Hunting – Introducing CV Wallet

As we navigate the ever-evolving world of job hunting, the role of technology becomes increasingly significant. A prime example of this is CV Wallet, the world's first career management app that's revolutionising the job seeking process.

With CV Wallet, you're no longer alone in your journey. This app offers a host of features designed to make your job search as seamless as possible. Its standout feature? Automating job applications and tracking - a boon when you're looking to follow up on or chase up job applications.

CV Wallet – Automating Job Applications and Follow-Ups

With hundreds of job boards and thousands of career sites, the job application process can be overwhelming. CV Wallet simplifies this, allowing you to apply and track your applications all in one place.

You're immediately updated about the progress of your application, taking the guesswork out of the follow-up process. When it's time to chase up on a job application, CV Wallet's automation feature ensures you do it with perfect timing and professionalism.

Other Notable CV Wallet Features Beneficial for Job Seekers

Beyond automating your job applications and follow-ups, CV Wallet is teeming with additional features that can give you an edge in your job search.

The app offers Blue Tick verification, leveraging blockchain technology to confirm your identity, skills, qualifications, and experience. This not only enhances your credibility but also saves time in the verification process.

The Career Hub feature, powered by AI, offers tailored career advice, interview preparation tips, and support for writing covering letters and application forms. It also provides access to leading assessments for upskilling.

CV Wallet also incorporates a decentralised wallet feature, providing a secure storage space for your personal data. This added layer of security ensures your privacy is never compromised.

With CV Wallet, you become discoverable. Employers can find you based on your skills and invite you to apply for relevant jobs.

Conclusion – Bringing it All Together

Following up on a job application is a vital aspect of the job search process, offering an opportunity to demonstrate your initiative, assertiveness, and continued interest in the role. Knowing when and how to follow up, and how to chase up a job application when necessary, can significantly improve your chances of success.

Harnessing the power of technology, like CV Wallet, can simplify and optimise this process. With automated job applications and follow-ups, identity verification, a personalised career hub, and secure personal data storage, CV Wallet revolutionises the way we approach job applications.

Remember, while patience is key in the job search process, a well-timed, respectful, and professional follow-up or chase up can serve as your lifeline in the vast ocean of job applications. Happy job hunting!