Here is how to follow up on a job application: wait about one week after applying (or until after the date the posting gave), then contact the employer once by email, phone or a short visit. Give the job title and the day you sent your application, confirm you still want the role, and ask whether a decision is near. If nothing comes back, try once more a week later, then move on. Yes, you should follow up; a short, polite check is normal and often helps.
This page covers the channel to use, what to say on a call, a voicemail script, an in person check for local jobs and short messages. Written versions are collected on the email samples page.
Quick answers
Should you
Yes, once or twice, politely.When
About a week after applying, or after the closing date.Best channel
Email for office jobs, a call or visit for local shops and restaurants.Best time to call
Mid morning or mid afternoon on a weekday, away from rush hours.When to stop
After a second unanswered follow up.
When to follow up on a job application
A first answer often arrives in one or two weeks; big companies or government offices can need a month or more. So a week is a fair first wait.
| Type of employer | First follow up | Second follow up |
|---|---|---|
| Local shop, cafe or restaurant | 3 to 5 days, often in person | A week later |
| Small office or clinic | About 1 week | About a week after the first |
| Large company portal | 1 to 2 weeks, if you can find a contact | A week after the first |
| Government or public sector | Watch the portal; reach out only where a named contact appears | Rarely needed |
| Posting lists a last date | Three or four days once it passes | A week after the first |
How to follow up on a job application by phone
A phone call works well for local jobs and small employers. Call the main number and ask for the hiring manager or the person named in the posting. Have the job title and the day you applied in front of you.
Hello, my name is [Your name]. I applied for the [Job title] position on [day], and I am calling to check whether you have had a chance to review applications yet.
If they say it is still open: "Thank you. Is there anything else I can send you, and is there a good time to check back?"
If they say it is filled: "Thank you for letting me know. I would be glad to be considered for anything similar in future."
Keep the call under two minutes. Smile while you talk; it really does change how you sound.
Best time of day to call about a job application
There is no rule, but timing affects whether the person can talk. Mid morning, about two hours after opening, and mid afternoon on a weekday usually work. Avoid the first hour of the day, the lunch rush in restaurants and shops, Friday afternoons and closing time. For a restaurant, call between lunch and dinner service.
Voicemail script
Hi, this is [Your name], calling on [day] about the [Job title] role I applied for on [date]. I am still very interested and wanted to check on the timeline. You can reach me on [phone number], that is [repeat phone number slowly]. Thank you, and have a good day.
Say your number twice, slowly. Do not leave more than one voicemail a week.
Following up in person
For a store, cafe or warehouse that took paper applications, a short visit can work. Go at a quiet time, dressed as you would for the job, and ask for the manager. Say your name, the job and when you applied, ask if they have looked at applications yet, and leave a copy of your resume if they would like one. If the manager is busy, ask when would be a better time and leave.
Short and sweet follow up messages
When you applied through a job board's message feature or a recruiter contacted you by message, keep the follow up very short:
Hi [Name], I sent in my application for the [Job title] role on [date]. Is there any update you can share? I am still keen and happy to share anything else you need. Thanks, [Your name]
Hello [Name], hope your week is going well. Is there any news on the [Job title] opening I applied for? Thank you for your time. [Your name]
Email versions, including one for when you have another offer, are on the follow up email page.
What to say and what not to say
Say
- Your name, the job and the date you applied.
- That you are still interested.
- A single question about the next step or timeline.
- Thank you.
Do not say
- "Did you even look at my application?"
- "I really need this job."
- "I will call every day until I hear back."
- Anything about pay or leave before an offer.
If the status shows a term such as not selected or not retained, the decision is made for that opening; see what not retained means. For a quick rundown of every stage, read tips for each box on the form and the portal applications guide.
Questions people ask
Should I follow up on a job application?
Yes. A brief, polite check in once a week has passed is normal and can remind a busy recruiter that you exist. Do it once or twice, not more.
What do I say when calling about a job application?
Give your name, the job title and the day you applied, then ask whether they have reviewed applications yet or when they expect to. Thank them and keep it under two minutes.
How long should I wait before following up on a job application?
About one week. When the advert shows a deadline, let it pass by three or four days first. For large employers and government jobs, check the online status before contacting anyone.
What is the best way to follow up on a job application?
Email suits most office and remote jobs. A phone call or visit suits local shops, restaurants and small businesses. Use whichever channel you applied through if a contact is listed.
Is it good to follow up on a job application more than twice?
Usually not. After two polite reminders with no reply, assume the answer is no for now and spend your time on other applications.
What is the best time of day to call about a job application?
Mid morning or mid afternoon on a weekday. Avoid opening time, the lunch rush and the end of the day.