Written and published by Seek Career Advice

Emailing an employer after you apply for a job can help you find out what stage their hiring process is at and if there’s more you can do. And following up after you’ve been through a job interview is a way to offer thanks, strengthen the impression you’ve made and find out next steps.

These templates can help you follow up politely and professionally – try one to get you started on your own follow-up email.

Following up after a job application: email template

When to use it: 1-2 weeks after applying

Email subject line: Application follow up – [Job title]

Hi [Name]

I applied for the position of [Job Title] via SEEK two weeks ago. I wanted to follow up to see if my application was received and check on the timeline for filling the role.

I’m very enthusiastic about the prospect of joining [Company Name] and contributing my [describe your skills or experience] to [describe what the role involves].

Please let me know if I can provide any further information that would be helpful to you. I can be reached on [Your phone number].

Best regards,
[Your name]

Read more: What to do when you don't hear back on a job application

Following up on the day of your interview: email template

When to send it: after a job interview, the same day

Email subject line: Thank you, [Interviewer’s Name]

Hi [Name],

Thank you for taking the time to speak with me about the [Job title] role. It was great to meet with you and learn more about the position.

I’m excited about the opportunity to join [Company name] and am particularly interested in the details you shared about [Example from interview].

Meeting you and hearing more about the role has validated for me that it’s something I would enjoy. I’m confident that my experience in [relevant example] and my interest in [relevant example] make me a strong candidate for the role.

Please let me know if I can provide any further information that would be helpful to you.

I look forward to hearing from you.

Thanks again,

[Your name]
[Your contact number]

Following up when you haven’t heard back after your interview: email template

When to send it: 1 week after your interview

Email subject line: Interview follow up – [Job title]

Hi [Name]

I hope you’re well.

I’m checking in on the [Job title] role. Do you have a sense of when you will be in a position to make a decision on this role?

I’m excited about the opportunity to join [Company name], and I’m confident that my experience will be an asset to you and the team.

Please let me know if there’s anything else I can provide to assist in the decision-making process.

Thank you,

[Your name]

More tips on following up

These templates can get you started on a follow-up email to suit your situation. Here are some other things to consider:

  • Adjust the way you write to suit the workplace
    If you’re applying to a corporate environment, keep your writing more formal. If it’s a casual workplace, it’s okay to make things shorter and more conversational. This can help you show that you understand the work environment.
  • Avoid repeated follow-ups
    If you still don’t get an answer after a couple of days, it may be best to check you have the correct details, call the employer, or consider pursuing other opportunities.
  • Remember to show patience
    It can take time for employers to get through the hiring process, particularly in peak times. While you shouldn’t be afraid to follow up, you also don’t want to harrass them.

Following up can be nerve racking, but waiting can be even more so. If you’re pursuing a job you’re interested in, it’s worth giving it your best shot. If your follow up is polite and professional, you can help strengthen a good impression and find out what steps to take next.