You have sent your application and now there is silence. Should you contact the employer, or just wait? A polite follow-up can show genuine interest, but done badly it can hurt your chances. Here is how to get the balance right.
First, check the advert
Some adverts say “Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted.” In that case, the employer has told you how the process works, and repeated follow-ups are unlikely to help. If the advert gives a contact person and phone number, a single follow-up is usually acceptable.
Timing matters
Wait until after the closing date. A good rule is to follow up about one to two weeks after the deadline. Contacting the employer the day after you apply can seem impatient.
Email is usually best
A short email gives the recruiter time to respond when it suits them. Keep it brief:
“Bula [Name], I applied for the position of [Job Title] on [date] and wanted to confirm that my application was received. I remain very interested in the role and would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my experience could support your team. Vinaka vakalevu, [Your Name], [Phone].”
If you call
- Call during business hours and avoid lunchtime.
- Introduce yourself and the position you applied for.
- Ask politely whether the shortlisting process has started.
- Thank the person for their time, whatever the answer.
Things to avoid
- Calling or emailing several times a week
- Messaging staff on their personal social media
- Turning up at the office unannounced, unless the advert invites walk-in applications
- Sounding frustrated or demanding
After an interview
Send a thank-you email within a day. If the interviewer told you when to expect a decision and that date passes, one polite follow-up is fine.
Keep moving
The best thing you can do while waiting is to keep applying. Check eJobsFiji regularly for new vacancies. If one application does not work out, you will already have others in progress.
