Follow-up email templates for job seekers

Knowing you should follow up is easy. Knowing what to write is harder. Start from a polite, professional template, make it yours, and send it at the right time.

Free. No sign-up. Edit before you send.

Templates you can copy

Replace the [brackets] with your details. Keep each message short and specific.

After applying, with no response

Subject: Following up on my application for [Job Title]

Dear [Name],

I recently applied for the [Job Title] position on [date] and wanted to confirm my interest in the role. My experience in [relevant skill or achievement] seems well aligned with what you're looking for.

I'd be glad to share any further information that would help. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Kind regards,
[Your name]
[Phone / LinkedIn]

Thank you after an interview

Subject: Thank you for speaking with me about [Job Title]

Dear [Name],

Thank you for taking the time to speak with me on [date] about the [Job Title] role. I enjoyed learning more about [something specific from the conversation] and I'm even more interested in joining [Company].

If it would help, I'm happy to provide examples of my work or answer any follow-up questions.

Kind regards,
[Your name]

Checking on a pending decision

Subject: Checking in on the [Job Title] decision

Dear [Name],

I hope you're well. I'm following up on my interview for the [Job Title] position on [date] to ask whether there is an update on the timeline.

I remain very interested in the role and would be glad to provide anything else you need. Thank you again for your time.

Kind regards,
[Your name]

What's included

  • After applying with no response
  • After a phone screen or interview
  • Following up with a recruiter
  • Checking the status of a pending decision
  • Thanking an interviewer
  • Following up after a networking conversation
  • Responding when a process goes quiet

Who they're for

  • First-time job seekers unsure of email etiquette
  • Professionals who want to sound polished and concise
  • Non-native English speakers applying for international jobs
  • Anyone who gets nervous writing follow-up messages

How to write a good follow-up

  • Keep it under 120 words.
  • Use a clear subject line with the job title.
  • Mention the role and the date you applied.
  • Restate your interest in one sentence.
  • Be polite, never demanding.
  • Send it on a weekday, during working hours in the recipient's time zone.

Mistakes to avoid

  • Following up too soon or too often
  • Sending vague messages with no job title
  • Copy-pasting without personalizing
  • Sounding frustrated or entitled

Frequently asked questions

How long should I wait before following up after applying?

A common approach is one to two weeks, unless the job post gives a timeline. If it does, follow that.

How do I make my follow-up message effective?

Keep it brief, specific and polite. Mention the role and your interest clearly, and keep it under about 120 words.

How many times should I follow up?

One or two well-spaced follow-ups are generally seen as professional. If you hear nothing after that, it is usually best to move on.

Are these templates free to use?

Yes. You can copy, edit and send them without paying or signing up.

Send your follow-up today

Pick a template, add your details and hit send.