[Template] 3 Key Follow-up Messages to Send After You Apply For a Job

In the chaotic world of talent acquisition, it’s not uncommon for companies to drop the ball when it comes to recognizing potential. The individuals tasked with finding the right fit for a role often find themselves fumbling the bag (aka the talent) because they lack time and resources.

This often results in a linear approach to hiring and leaves them asking candidates one simple question: Can you do the job? Yes or no?

However, the approach that makes the most sense is to connect the dots between a candidate’s abilities and the job requirements. This task often falls on the candidate, and it’s important to be as clear and concise as possible.

Candidates have ample amounts of opportunities to clearly tell their story on their:

• LinkedIn Profiles
• Resumes
• Cover Letters
• Portfolios

These visual artifacts (because let’s face it, that’s what they are) are tried and true. But, today, I’m here to share one more tactic that overworked candidates can use to stand out in this busy job market:

Send a message to a hiring manager after submitting their job applications.

It’s simple, yet overlooked, and it’s the perfect way to give job candidates the edge that they need to showcase why they’re a fit for the position.

Templates: Follow-up messages to the Hiring Manager

Intro Message: Quick Intro / Context to Your Background

Note: If you are not sending this message via LinkedIn Premium “InMail” you will only have 300 characters to get your point across. The following message is intended to be 300 words or less.

If you go over the character count, use the Career CoPilot (AI Career Coach) tool to help you edit it.

Subject: Let’s Drive Results Together – [Role Name] Application

Hi [Hiring Manager Name],

With [number of years of experience]+ years of experience in [relevant industry/role], I have developed [notable impact you made in the past] for companies like [Is the company big or well known?]. I recently applied for the [Role Name] position at [Company Name], and I am ready to tackle your team’s most pressing [most important challenge listed in the job description] challenges. Let’s connect and discuss how I can immediately solve this challenge!

Best,
[Your Name]
[Your Email Address]

Message 2: Ask Two Key Questions

Thank you for your prompt response. I know you are busy and I appreciate your time. I have a couple of quick follow-up questions to ensure I fully understand the scope of this role, as it does seem like an excellent opportunity.

Firstly, could you elaborate on the key challenges the [name of the team] team might encounter, and how the [the name of the position] can contribute/make the most impact in these situations?

Additionally, I am interested in learning about any past successful projects or initiatives led by the [the name of the role]. Could you provide some instances of past successful projects that have significantly influenced [the name of the company] goals and objectives?

Thank you again for your time and prompt response.
[Your Name]

Message 3: Say Thank You & Wrap It Up

Hi [manager name]!

Thank you for your response!

It’s exciting to hear that this is a new position at [company name]. I’ve actually been in a similar situation before. I was part of a newly formed [type of team] team in my previous role, and [address the challenge mentioned by the hiring manager]. It was a challenging but rewarding experience.

I understand the importance of closing the gap and making sure everything is on track. It can make a huge difference for the [name of the team] team and the whole organization. Also, I 100% understand the struggle of [one of the challenges mentioned by the hiring manager]. It’s a common issue that many organizations face, especially when you have a newly formed team.

I’m excited about the idea of tackling these challenges with your team. It seems like a great fit for my experience, and I’m all about diving in to help out where it’s needed.

Thank you once again for your response, and I look forward to the opportunity to further discuss how I can contribute to the success of the team.

Best, [Your Name]

Additional Resources: Audio & Video Messages

Here are a few resources you can use to take your messages to the next level and even provide additional context to your experience.

VCV.ME

VCV.me is a resume that speaks. Candidates are prompted to share their work experiences, achievements, and goals all via a quick video. This platform helps you quickly package all of this content in one place and share it via a quick link.

When to Use It: Use VCV.me when sending your Quick Intro or providing context to your background. A brief video introduction can add a personal touch to your follow-up message, making you memorable to the hiring manager.

LOOM

Loom is a video messaging platform that allows you to record quick videos of yourself along with your screen or just your face. You can use it to create personalized messages, walk hiring managers through your portfolio or resume, or provide additional context to your application.

When to Use It: Loom is best used when you want to convey complex information clearly and concisely. It’s perfect for situations where written communication might not fully capture your enthusiasm or expertise, such as when following up on an application or responding to interview questions.

LINKEDIN VOICE MESSAGES

LinkedIn recently introduced the feature of sending audio messages within the platform. This allows you to add a personal touch to your communication by speaking directly to the recipient.

When to Use It: Use LinkedIn Audio Messages when you want to build a more personal connection with the recipient. It’s ideal for following up after a networking event, expressing gratitude for an opportunity, or engaging in casual conversation with potential employers or colleagues.