Resume Writing FAQs: When Should I Send Resume Follow Up
Letters?
I'm often asked how long you should wait before following up on
a resume submitted in response to a telecommuting position. You
want them to know you are interested, but there is a fine line
between pestering the hiring manager and showing your
enthusiasm. Here are some tips to guide you.
A week is a reasonable time to wait for a reply from the hiring
manager. Hiring managers will receive, on average, around 300
resumes in response to a position after just 12 hours of posting
it online! Give it a week to calm down and then send your follow
up e-mail (because e-mails are less intrusive phone calls).
Make sure to hit the following key points in your letter:
1. Ask if the position has been filled.
2. Reiterate your interest in the position.
3. Express your continued interest in working for their company
(in case the position was filled).
4. Ask for an interview.
5. Give them your phone number again so they have it at their
finger tips.
6. Thank them for their time and attention (because you know how
valuable it is).
Attach and send your resume again as a reminder. If your resume
was buried in the pile, they will appreciate the follow up. You
will appear to be a focused and motivated professional worth
receiving a second review. It might even get you the interview
because most jobseekers overlook the power of good follow up!
In addition, if they decided you weren't a match, this will
obligate them to let you know that you were not selected. Then,
you can either move on or continue to pursue employment with
them at a later date. You never know - the new hire might not
work out for them.
If you need help creating your resume follow up letter, here is
a sample template I found by Heather Eager of
ResumeLines.com.
Change it to meet your needs and to make sure you hit all six
key points discussed above.