Jeanette writes:
Hi there. I am a current undergrad student upon the threshold of graduation and am in the search of a job. I have compiled a resume and sent it to one employer that posted a job I was very much interested in. My question is focused on a matter of etiquette. It’s been perhaps 2 to 3 weeks since I submitted my resume and was wondering if it would be proper, and conducive to the exhibition of etiquette, to call the employer and ask if they received my resume and if so were interested? I would more so than appreciate any advice you could give.
The Career Doctor responds:
You have great timing in sending your question because I just received an email from Gina, a hiring manager, who complained about the prospective candidate who showed up in the office unannounced a few days after his interview to check on his status, and while they met with him to not appear rude, he just lost that job opportunity — very bad job-seeking etiquette.
Your situation is quite different, though, and it gives me the opportunity to again stress the importance of follow-up to all job-seekers. Please remember these words if you want to succeed in finding a new job: follow up, follow up, follow up. Following up job leads shows prospective employers your interest in the company and position — and gives you another chance to sell your qualifications. Some job-seekers fear sounding desperate or annoying when making follow-up inquiries, but as long as you do it right, you will come across as interested, not desperate.
You need to track down every job lead and keep on top of the status of each of those leads. I recommend waiting no more than two weeks to follow-up with a prospective employer… calling or emailing to make sure your resume was received and get your name remembered.
Here are some other tips:
- If you apply online for a position, consider following-up the online application with a cover letter and resume sent to the hiring manager via postal mail. You will stand out over the other online applicants because few will also send a hard copy.
- Keep your follow-up brief, to the point, and professional.
- Focus your follow-up around your fit with the position and organization and your USP. You might also ask the hiring manager if he/she needs any further information not included in your original application.
- If you recently completed training, received an award, or earned some other recognition that would make you an even better candidate for the position, be sure to mention it in your follow-up.
- Continue following-up regularly
For much more advice and tips, read my article, Follow Up All Job Leads: Don’t Wait by the Phone (or Computer), published on Quintessential Careers.
