How often should you follow up after sending a cover letter?

1 Why follow up?

Following up after sending a cover letter is a way of showing your interest and enthusiasm for the job. It can also help you stand out from the crowd of applicants, especially if the employer receives hundreds of resumes every day. By following up, you can remind the employer of your qualifications, demonstrate your communication skills, and express your fit for the company culture. However, following up too frequently or too aggressively can backfire and ruin your chances of getting hired. You need to strike a balance between being persistent and respectful.

2 When to follow up?

There is no definitive answer to how often you should follow up after sending a cover letter. It depends on several factors, such as the industry, the company, the hiring process, and the job market. However, a general rule of thumb is to wait at least a week before sending your first follow-up message. This gives the employer enough time to review your application and decide on the next steps. If you don't hear back after a week, you can send another follow-up message, but don't do it more than once every two weeks. If you still don't get a response after three or four attempts, it's time to move on and focus on other opportunities.

3 How to follow up?

The best way to follow up after sending a cover letter is to use the same method and tone that you used in your initial application. For example, if you applied online through an email, you should follow up with an email as well. If you applied through a phone call or a referral, you should follow up with a phone call or a thank-you note to your contact. Whatever method you choose, make sure to be polite, professional, and concise. Don't repeat everything you said in your cover letter, but rather highlight one or two key points that make you a strong candidate. Also, don't forget to mention the job title and the date of your application, and to attach your resume and cover letter again for reference.

4 What to avoid?

When following up after sending a cover letter, it is important to take caution to avoid hurting your chances of getting hired. Do not be pushy or demanding when asking for an interview, a decision, or feedback. Additionally, do not be negative or desperate, as this can make you seem unappealing to employers. It is also important to not be spammy or annoying by sending multiple follow-up messages in a short period of time or using different channels or contacts to reach the employer. Instead, express your interest and availability, be confident and optimistic, and follow the employer's instructions and preferences.

5 What to do next?

If you follow these tips on how to follow up after sending a cover letter, you can increase your chances of getting a response and an interview. However, don't put all your eggs in one basket. Keep applying for other jobs that match your skills and interests, and keep networking with people who can help you with your job search. Remember that finding a job is a numbers game, and sometimes it takes time and luck to land your dream job. Don't give up, and don't take rejection personally. You never know when the right opportunity will come along.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?