When you're searching for a job and filling out job applications, it's important to stay connected to the people who might hire you. Of course, you're eager to find out as much information as possible about the industry and other possible opportunities. However, you don't want to alienate a manager who might call you in for an interview. Consider using these methods to follow up on your application.
Show Your Industry Knowledge
There are several ways you can follow up on a job application without annoying the potential employer or appearing desperate. Instead of sending a general email asking about the job, share an article that relates to the employer's industry or outlines a new strategy or technology that could improve the business. This shows the employer you are interested in the company and are able to do research and make connections to information that can help the company grow and succeed. Taking this action also has extra benefits if you land an interview. It allows you to discuss your research during the interview process and explain how you think it relates to the employer, giving you a chance to impress the hiring manager.
Include More Details About Forgotten Experiences
Another way to reach out after submitting a job application is to request to submit information you left out of your resume or cover letter. Maybe you forgot about a volunteer experience or leadership experience and want to share this information with the employer. There could be skills that are relevant to the position that you didn't emphasize or examples of experiences or challenges that you want to point out. Use this strategy as an opportunity to give the employer even more insight into your suitability as a job candidate.
Follow Up With New Accomplishments
The job search process can sometimes take weeks or longer, and it's possible that you might receive an award, complete a major project, or publish an article in an industry journal or other prestigious publication while you're waiting for the recruiter to contact you. These accomplishments might make your job application stand out among the other job candidates. The only problem is you've already submitted your job application to the employer. Instead of letting the opportunity to tout your accomplishments go by, contact the employer and request to include details about these accomplishments with your application materials, as they add great value to you as a candidate for the position.
The best way to follow up on a job application is to share additional information with the recruiter that further emphasizes your suitability as a candidate. Request to include more details about your job experiences with the job application materials you already submitted, and continuously provide updated information about your accomplishments to increase your chance of landing an interview.
Photo courtesy of Stuart Miles at FreeDigitalPhotos.net
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