Follow-up email after an application: 3 templates that get replies

Template 1: The polite nudge one week after applying

Use this when you applied through a portal or by email and got no confirmation or reply. Wait five to seven working days first. Keep it short. You are confirming your application arrived and reminding them you exist, nothing more.

• Subject: Application for [Job Title]: [Your Name]
• Hi [Name],
• I applied for the [Job Title] role on [date] and wanted to check my application came through.
• I am very interested in this role because [one specific reason tied to the company or team].
• I am happy to send anything else that would help. Thank you for your time.
• Best regards,
• [Your Name]
• [Phone number] | [LinkedIn URL]

Template 2: The value-add follow-up when you have something to share

Use this when you can add a relevant detail: a portfolio piece, a recent result, or a thought about a challenge the role involves. This works best when you send it a few days after applying and you have a real reason to reach out, not a made-up one.

• Subject: Following up on [Job Title]: quick example of my work
• Hi [Name],
• I recently applied for the [Job Title] role and wanted to add something to my application.
• In my last role I [specific, measurable outcome, for example: rebuilt an onboarding flow that cut drop-off]. It maps closely to what you described in the posting.
• Here is a short example if useful: [link].
• I would welcome the chance to discuss how I could help the team. Thank you for reading.
• Best regards,
• [Your Name]
• [Phone number] | [LinkedIn URL]

Template 3: The final check-in after two weeks of silence

Use this once, around two weeks after your last message, when you still have heard nothing. It is your last polite touch. Give them an easy out, so you keep the door open even if the answer is no or not now.

• Subject: Checking in on [Job Title] application
• Hi [Name],
• I wanted to follow up one last time on my application for the [Job Title] role from [date].
• I understand hiring takes time and you are busy. If the position is filled or on hold, a quick note is all I need so I can plan accordingly.
• I remain very keen and would be glad to talk whenever it suits you.
• Thank you again for your time.
• Best regards,
• [Your Name]
• [Phone number] | [LinkedIn URL]

How to personalise without breaking what works

Keep the structure. Change only the bracketed parts and one or two sentences of substance. Always use a real name if you can find it, and swap the generic reason for one concrete detail about the company, the team, or the role. Match the tone of the job posting: formal for finance and law, warmer for startups. Read it aloud once. If it sounds like a template, rewrite the middle line in your own words. Never send the same message twice to the same person.