How Can Women in Tech Master the Art of Following Up After Applying?

After applying, wait 1-2 weeks before a personalized, concise follow-up referencing the role and any new achievements. Use multiple channels thoughtfully, express gratitude, and maintain a polite follow-up schedule. Show confidence, leverage your network, and be prepared for any response professionally.

After applying, wait 1-2 weeks before a personalized, concise follow-up referencing the role and any new achievements. Use multiple channels thoughtfully, express gratitude, and maintain a polite follow-up schedule. Show confidence, leverage your network, and be prepared for any response professionally.

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Be Timely but Patient

After submitting your application, wait about one to two weeks before following up. This gives the employer enough time to review applications but keeps you on their radar. Timing your follow-up well shows professionalism and respect for their process.

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Personalize Your Follow-Up Message

Avoid generic follow-ups. Reference the specific role you applied for and, if possible, mention a detail from the job posting or company values that resonate with you. Personalization demonstrates genuine interest and attention to detail.

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Keep It Concise and Clear

Your follow-up message should be brief—ideally under 150 words. Clearly state your intent to check on your application status, reiterate your enthusiasm for the role, and provide any relevant contact information.

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Highlight Any New or Relevant Information

If since applying you’ve completed a relevant course, certification, or project, mention it in your follow-up. This shows continuous growth and makes your candidacy stronger while reminding recruiters why you’re a great fit.

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Use Multiple Channels Thoughtfully

If you don’t get a response via email, consider a polite follow-up via LinkedIn or a phone call after a suitable interval. Be careful not to overwhelm the recruiter; spacing out communications shows persistence without being pushy.

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Express Appreciation

Always thank the recipient for their time and consideration. Politeness goes a long way in building a positive impression and maintaining goodwill, even if the outcome isn’t immediately favorable.

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Prepare for Possible Responses

Be ready for any reply—positive, negative, or no response. If invited to discuss further, respond promptly. If you receive a rejection, consider asking for feedback politely. Maintaining professionalism preserves potential future opportunities.

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Leverage Your Network

If possible, connect with current employees or alumni in the company before or after applying. They can provide insights or even internally advocate for you, making your follow-ups more impactful.

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Maintain a Follow-Up Schedule

Plan your follow-ups so you don’t repeatedly contact the employer. For example, send a first follow-up after two weeks, and if needed, a final polite inquiry a couple weeks later. This balanced approach shows interest without desperation.

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Reflect Confidence Not Desperation

Frame your follow-up with confident language, emphasizing what you bring to the role rather than pleading for a response. Confidence resonates well, particularly in the tech industry, where self-assurance is valued.

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What else to take into account

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