Follow up professionally and politely, allowing 1–2 weeks before reaching out. Use clear, concise language and add value with relevant updates. Try multiple communication channels, seek feedback, and network internally. Keep records, stay persistent yet know when to move on for best results.
How Should Women in Tech Navigate Follow-Ups When They Haven’t Heard Back?
AdminFollow up professionally and politely, allowing 1–2 weeks before reaching out. Use clear, concise language and add value with relevant updates. Try multiple communication channels, seek feedback, and network internally. Keep records, stay persistent yet know when to move on for best results.
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Remain Professional and Polite
When following up, always maintain a professional and polite tone. Express appreciation for their time and gently inquire if there have been any updates. This approach keeps the communication respectful and increases the chance of a positive response.
Wait an Appropriate Amount of Time
Give the recipient enough time to respond before following up, typically one to two weeks. Women in tech should avoid sounding impatient, as thoughtful timing shows professionalism and understanding of others’ busy schedules.
Use Clear and Concise Language
In your follow-up message, be clear about what you’re asking and keep it brief. Highlight your interest in the role or opportunity and reference your previous communication to provide context.
Add Value in Your Follow-Up
Instead of a generic check-in, try to add value. Share a relevant article, update on your skills, or a recent accomplishment that aligns with the job or project. This can make your follow-up stand out positively.
Leverage Multiple Communication Channels
If you’ve emailed once with no response, consider a polite LinkedIn message or a phone call as your next step. Different modes of communication might catch their attention without seeming pushy.
Seek Feedback Constructively
If you haven’t heard back after an interview or application, frame your follow-up to request feedback. This shows your commitment to growth and professionalism rather than just seeking a status update.
Network Within the Company
Sometimes following up through another contact within the organization can help. Women in tech can benefit from their networks for internal referrals or insights that facilitate a smoother follow-up process.
Keep a Record of Communications
Document all your follow-up attempts and any received responses. This helps you track your interactions and avoids accidentally spamming or repeating messages too frequently, which could hurt your impression.
Stay Confident and Persistent
It’s normal to not hear back immediately. Continue to follow up with confidence and persistence up to a reasonable number of times (e.g., two or three follow-ups). Don’t be discouraged—persistence can pay off.
Know When to Move On
If repeated follow-ups yield no reply, it’s important to recognize when to move on. This shows emotional intelligence and saves energy for other opportunities. Redirect focus to avenues that are more responsive.
What else to take into account
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