Timing
- 5–7 business days after applying — first outreach
- Not before 3 days — gives the team time to process
- One follow-up max — if no reply after another week, move on
- Tuesday–Thursday mornings for best visibility
Subject line
Following up — [Job Title] application or [Job Title] — quick follow-up
Follow-up template
Subject: Following up — [Job Title] application
Hi [First Name],
I applied for the [Job Title] role through [portal] last week and
wanted to follow up directly. I'm especially interested because
[one specific reason tied to the posting or company].
Would you have 10 minutes to discuss whether my background in
[skill] could be a fit?
Thank you,
[Your Name]Find the hiring manager first
You need a name and email before you can follow up. Find the hiring manager's email or paste the job URL into DearHiringManager.io.
What if they still don't reply?
Move on. One email plus one optional LinkedIn message is enough. If portal applications keep going nowhere, read how to bypass ATS in 2026.
FAQ
When should I follow up if I got no response after applying?
Wait 5–7 business days after applying, then send one short email to the hiring manager. Not before 3 days — give the team time to process the first batch.
Should I follow up with the recruiter or hiring manager?
Hiring manager first if you can identify them — they own the decision. Recruiter if the posting names one or the hiring manager is not findable.
How many follow-ups is too many?
One follow-up after the initial note is enough. Two total contacts, then move on.