Turn the Tables on Job Applications: Proactive Strategies for Candidates
Querying the appropriate queries: finding effective ways to impact app development
Remember when you thought your application was dead in the water because you didn't hear back from a company? Well, they might've dropped the ball, and you still have a shot! That's according to Bastian Hughes, a career coach and podcaster (Career Optimizer), who's got the inside scoop from his stint as an HR pro.
A little initiative goes a long way. Most of the time, a well-timed follow-up can be a game-changer. Hughes recommends, for example, that if you're sure the interview went swimmingly and everyone seemed thrilled, you should follow up just in case.
The same principle applies when you've been waiting way longer than usual to hear back after an interview. HR folks often juggle multiple positions, so waiting times can vary based on the urgency of filling a role. By actively checking in, you might at least get an update on your application status.
Even After a Red Light, There's Hope
So, you got a rejection? Don't lose heart, my friend! Direct communication could still flip the script. Hughes suggests even in this case, you should reach out again. Sometimes a second look from the recruiter can work wonders.
Dive Deeper: Post-Rejection Communication
If they stand by their decision, you might end up with more detailed reasons for the rejection than a standard, impersonal email. In the best-case scenario, you'll realize you'd be a perfect fit for future positions within the company.
Sources
- ntv.de, awi/dpa
Key Terms:
- Follow-up
- Proactive communication
- Initiative
- Job interview
- Waiting time
- Rejection
- Recruiter
- Candidate
- Job application process
- Reputation management
- Hiring process
- Feedback
- Career advancement-,
Actionable Insights:
- After submitting an application, wait at least two weeks before following up. After an interview, follow up within 24–48 hours for a phone interview, or 5–7 days for in-person interviews. If you receive a rejection, it’s professional to send a brief thank-you note and express interest in future opportunities.
- Address your message to the hiring manager or recruiter by name if possible. Reference the specific job, date of application or interview, and any memorable discussion points to personalize your message. Emphasize your continued interest and why you’re a strong fit for the role.
- Be clear, concise, and professional in your follow-up. Use a clear subject line, keep your message brief and to the point, and proofread for errors before sending.
- Highlight your value and enthusiasm in your follow-up. Remind the recipient of your key skills, achievements, and how you can solve problems for the organization. Express genuine enthusiasm for the position and the company.
- Politely inquire about the status of your application or the decision timeline if appropriate. After a rejection, request feedback to improve future applications.
- Consider following up via email or a brief phone call, depending on the company’s communication preferences.
- If you have multiple contacts, use email tracking tools to optimize timing and monitor responses.
- When multiple rejections or silences occur, persist with a positive attitude, and learn from the rejections to refine your approach for future applications.
- Leverage your professional network for introductions or insights into the hiring process where appropriate.
- In case you're unsure if the interview went well and everyone seemed enthusiastic, following up could be beneficial, as suggested by Bastian Hughes, a career coach and podcaster.
- Making an initiative to reach out for an update on your application status might be particularly helpful when you've been waiting longer than usual after an interview, as HR personnel often have several positions to manage at once.
- Even after receiving a rejection, communicating directly with the recruiter could potentially lead to a second look at your application, possibly paving the way for future opportunities within the company.
