Applying for jobs can feel like a long and uncertain process. You spend time preparing your CV, writing a strong cover letter, and sometimes even going through multiple rounds of interviews. But one of the most common questions job seekers have is: “What should I do after I apply or attend an interview?” How to follow up after submitting a CV or interview
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Following up the right way can set you apart from other candidates, demonstrate your professionalism, and remind the employer of your interest. However, it has to be done carefully—too pushy, and you may come across as impatient; too quiet, and you risk being forgotten.
In this guide, we’ll break down how to follow up after submitting a CV and after an interview, with examples, timing tips, and professional strategies that comply with workplace etiquette.
Why Following Up Matters
Many candidates hesitate to follow up because they don’t want to appear annoying. But when done politely, follow-ups are not only acceptable—they’re often expected.
Here’s why following up is important:
- Shows interest and enthusiasm – Employers like candidates who are genuinely excited about the role.
- Keeps you top-of-mind – Hiring managers review many CVs and interview many candidates. A well-timed message reminds them of you.
- Provides an opportunity to clarify – You can reinforce your skills or address points you may have missed during the interview.
- Demonstrates professionalism – Employers notice communication skills. A polite, well-structured follow-up shows you are organized and proactive.
Following Up After Submitting a CV
When you apply for a position, especially online, it’s easy to feel like your application disappears into a black hole. The truth is, HR departments receive dozens—or sometimes hundreds—of CVs for a single role. A follow-up can help your application stand out.
When to Follow Up
- Wait about 7–10 days after submitting your CV before following up. This gives the employer enough time to review applications.
- If the job posting had a specific deadline, count 5–7 days after that deadline before reaching out.
How to Follow Up
- Find the right contact person – Look for the hiring manager’s name in the job ad, on the company website, or on LinkedIn. Avoid sending a generic message to “HR Department.”
- Use email instead of phone – Emails are less intrusive and allow the recruiter to respond at their convenience.
- Keep it short and polite – The purpose is to remind them about your application, not to demand an update.
Example Email After Submitting a CV
Subject line: Application Follow-Up – [Your Name]
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I hope this message finds you well. I recently applied for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name] on [Date], and I wanted to kindly follow up to ask if there have been any updates regarding my application.
I am very interested in this opportunity because [insert one sentence about why you’re excited about the role]. Please let me know if you need any additional information from me.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Best regards,
[Your Full Name]
[Your Contact Information]
Following Up After an Interview
Once you’ve secured an interview, congratulations! That’s already a big step forward. But your work doesn’t stop there. Following up after an interview is one of the most effective ways to strengthen your candidacy.
Why Follow Up After an Interview?
- Shows gratitude – Thanking the interviewer is not only polite but also memorable.
- Highlights key strengths – A follow-up lets you remind them of your skills and why you’re a good fit.
- Keeps communication open – Employers may take weeks to decide. A follow-up maintains the connection.
When to Follow Up
- Send a thank-you email within 24 hours of the interview.
- If you haven’t heard back within 7–10 business days, you can send a second, polite check-in.
How to Write a Thank-You Email After an Interview
- Be prompt – Send your email the same day or the next morning.
- Personalize it – Mention something specific from the interview conversation.
- Express enthusiasm – Reaffirm your interest in the role.
Example Thank-You Email
Subject line: Thank You – [Your Name], [Job Title] Interview
Dear [Interviewer’s Name],
Thank you for taking the time to meet with me yesterday regarding the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. I truly enjoyed learning more about the role and the exciting projects your team is working on.
Our discussion about [insert specific topic discussed] confirmed my enthusiasm for contributing to [Company’s goal/mission]. I believe my background in [specific skill/experience] aligns well with your team’s needs.
I appreciate the opportunity to interview and look forward to the possibility of working together. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you need any additional details from me.
Warm regards,
[Your Name]
Following Up If You Haven’t Heard Back
Sometimes, even after interviews, companies go silent. This can feel frustrating, but it doesn’t always mean bad news. Hiring decisions can take time due to internal approvals, budget considerations, or multiple interview rounds.
How to Send a Polite Follow-Up
If two weeks have passed and you haven’t received feedback, here’s how you can check in:
Subject line: Following Up on Interview – [Your Name]
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I hope you’re doing well. I interviewed for the [Job Title] position on [Date] and wanted to kindly follow up to ask if there are any updates on the hiring process.
I remain very interested in this role and in the opportunity to contribute to [Company Name]. Please let me know if there’s anything further I can provide to assist in the decision-making process.
Thank you again for your time and consideration.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
What Not to Do When Following Up
While following up is important, there are certain mistakes to avoid:
- Don’t follow up too soon – Give them time to review applications.
- Don’t send multiple messages in a short period – This may seem desperate.
- Avoid being overly casual – Even if the interviewer was friendly, maintain professionalism.
- Don’t use social media DMs – Unless the recruiter explicitly connected with you there, always use email.
- Never sound demanding – Use polite, respectful language.
Tips to Make Your Follow-Ups More Effective
- Customize your message – Generic emails look copy-pasted. Mention specifics about the role or conversation.
- Keep it concise – Aim for 3–5 short paragraphs. Busy recruiters appreciate brevity.
- Use a professional email address – Ideally, Firstname.Lastname@email.com.
- Proofread before sending – Typos can hurt your professional image.
- Stay positive – Even if you don’t hear back, maintain a polite tone. You never know if another opportunity will arise with the same company.
Handling Different Scenarios
Here are some situations you might face and how to handle them:
- Scenario 1: No response after CV submission
→ Wait at least 7 days, then send a short, polite email. - Scenario 2: No response after interview
→ Follow up after 10–14 days. If no answer after another week, move forward while keeping the door open. - Scenario 3: You receive a rejection
→ Thank them for their time and express interest in future opportunities. This leaves a positive impression. - Scenario 4: You get an offer from another company
→ If you’re waiting on another employer, let them know you’ve received an offer but are still very interested in their role.
Professional Follow-Up Timeline (Quick Reference)
- After CV submission: 7–10 days
- After interview: Thank-you email within 24 hours
- Second follow-up after interview: 7–10 business days later
- Final follow-up: 2–3 weeks later if still no response
Conclusion
Following up after submitting a CV or after an interview is an essential part of the job search process. It demonstrates professionalism, enthusiasm, and strong communication skills—all qualities employers look for in candidates.
The key is to strike a balance: follow up politely, at the right time, and with the right tone. Whether it’s a thank-you note after an interview or a polite inquiry about your application status, your effort can make you stand out among other applicants.
Remember: even if you don’t get the job, following up leaves a lasting impression that could lead to future opportunities. Approach every step of the hiring process—including follow-ups—with confidence and professionalism.