How To Follow Up After Submitting A Job Application 2026: 21 Powerful, Proven Strategies That Get Employers to Respond
Introduction: Why Following Up in 2026 Is No Longer Optional
If you’ve ever submitted a job application, waited weeks, refreshed your email endlessly, and heard nothing back, you’re not alone.
In 2026, the global job market is more competitive than ever. Employers in South Africa, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada receive hundreds or even thousands of applications for a single role.
According to data from recruitment platforms like LinkedIn and Indeed, over 70% of job applications never receive a response.
This is why understanding how to follow up after submitting a job application 2026 is no longer a “nice to have” skill. It is a career survival skill.
A professional, well-timed follow-up can:
- Move your application to the top of the pile
- Show initiative and professionalism
- Clarify your interest in the role
- Increase your chances of getting an interview
In this in-depth guide, you will learn exactly when, how, and what to say when following up, without sounding desperate, annoying, or unprofessional.
1. What Does Following Up Really Mean?
Following up means politely and professionally checking in with an employer after submitting your application to:
- Confirm receipt
- Reaffirm your interest
- Ask about next steps
It does not mean:
- Demanding a response
- Sending daily emails
- Complaining about delays
Understanding this distinction is the foundation of mastering how to follow up after submitting a job application 2026.
2. Why Employers Ignore Most Applications
Many job seekers assume silence means rejection. In reality, employers are often overwhelmed.
Common reasons applications go unanswered:
- High application volumes
- Internal hiring freezes
- Delayed decision-making
- Recruiters managing multiple roles
- Automated Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS)
According to the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), recruiters spend an average of 6–8 seconds scanning an application during initial screening.
External Reference:
https://www.shrm.org
A follow-up helps your name stand out in this crowded process.
3. Global Hiring Trends in 2026
Hiring trends that make follow-ups more important than ever:
- Remote and hybrid work increases applicant pools
- AI-driven screening filters out qualified candidates
- Employers prioritise proactive communication skills
- Informal hiring through referrals is increasing
In South Africa, public and private sector employers increasingly expect professional communication etiquette, especially in competitive roles.
4. When Should You Follow Up After Applying?
Timing is critical.
The Ideal Follow-Up Timeline
- Day 0 – Submit application
- Day 7–10 – First follow-up
- Day 21 – Second follow-up (if no response)
- After interview – Follow up within 24–48 hours
Following up too early looks impatient. Following up too late risks being forgotten.
5. The Golden Rules of Following Up
Before we get into exact steps, remember these rules:
- Always be polite and professional
- Keep messages short and clear
- Personalise whenever possible
- Use the correct channel (email, LinkedIn, portal)
- Respect employer timelines
Breaking these rules can damage your chances.
6. How To Follow Up After Submitting A Job Application 2026 (Step-by-Step)
This is the core process that works across industries and countries.
Step 1: Identify the Right Contact Person
Look for:
- Hiring manager name in the job ad
- HR contact email
- Recruiter on LinkedIn
- Company careers page
If no name is available, use a general HR email.
Step 2: Choose the Right Follow-Up Method
Your options include:
- Email (most effective)
- LinkedIn message
- Phone call (less common)
- Applicant portal message
Email remains the preferred method globally.
Step 3: Craft a Professional Follow-Up Message
Your message should include:
- The job title
- Date you applied
- A brief expression of interest
- A polite request for an update
Do not attach your CV again unless requested.
Step 4: Send at the Right Time
Best days to send follow-ups:
- Tuesday
- Wednesday
- Thursday
Best time:
- Between 9:00 and 11:00 (local time)
Step 5: Track Responses
Keep a simple spreadsheet or use job-tracking tools to monitor:
- Application dates
- Follow-up dates
- Responses received
7. Email Follow-Up Strategies That Work
Email remains the most professional way to follow up.
Effective email follow-ups:
- Are under 150 words
- Have a clear subject line
- Reference the specific role
- End politely
Employers in South Africa, the US, UK, and Canada generally view one or two follow-ups as acceptable.
8. LinkedIn Follow-Up Strategies
LinkedIn is powerful when used correctly.
Best practices:
- Send a connection request with a short note
- Reference the role professionally
- Avoid pushing for immediate responses
LinkedIn follow-ups work especially well in:
- Corporate roles
- Tech
- Finance
- Consulting
9. Phone Follow-Ups: When and How to Use Them
Phone follow-ups are less common in 2026 but still relevant in:
- Small businesses
- Retail
- Construction
- Hospitality
Rules:
- Call during business hours
- Keep it under 2 minutes
- Be respectful if redirected
10. Following Up After Online Applications
Many job seekers wonder if it’s possible to follow up after applying through a portal.
Yes, it is.
Options include:
- Contacting HR via company website
- Messaging recruiters on LinkedIn
- Checking application status portals
Never assume online applications mean “no follow-up allowed.”
11. Following Up After Recruitment Agencies
Recruitment agencies expect follow-ups.
Best approach:
- Follow up within 5–7 working days
- Ask for feedback
- Stay professional even if unsuccessful
Recruiters remember candidates who communicate well.
12. Following Up After Government or Public Sector Applications
Public sector hiring is slower.
Best practices:
- Follow timelines listed in adverts
- Use official contact channels
- Expect longer response times
Patience is crucial, especially in South Africa’s public sector.
13. How Often Is Too Often?
A general rule:
- Maximum of two follow-ups per application
More than that risks damaging your reputation.
14. Common Follow-Up Mistakes That Kill Your Chances
Avoid these at all costs:
- Sounding desperate
- Using informal language
- Sending multiple messages in a short time
- Complaining about delays
- Following up on the wrong role
Professionalism always wins.
15. What to Do If You Never Get a Response
No response does not always mean rejection.
What you can do:
- Move on professionally
- Apply elsewhere
- Build skills
- Continue networking
Successful job seekers treat follow-ups as part of a larger job-search strategy.
16. How Following Up Differs by Country
South Africa
- Formal tone preferred
- Email follow-ups acceptable
- Government roles move slowly
United States
- Direct communication appreciated
- LinkedIn follow-ups common
United Kingdom
- Politeness and brevity valued
- Over-communication discouraged
Canada
- Balanced approach
- Professional and courteous tone
Understanding cultural expectations improves outcomes.
17. Tools to Track Job Applications
Useful tools include:
- Spreadsheets
- Job-search apps
- Email reminders
South African job seekers can also find guidance, opportunities, and career resources on
Linkinn.co.za (internal link).
18. How Follow-Ups Improve Long-Term Career Outcomes
Studies show candidates who follow up:
- Build stronger professional networks
- Improve communication skills
- Gain feedback for future applications
- Increase interview success rates
Following up is not just about one job — it’s about your career brand.
19. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the best time to follow up after applying for a job?
Between 7 and 10 days after submitting your application.
Is it okay to follow up more than once?
Yes, but limit it to two professional follow-ups.
Should I follow up if the job advert says “no calls”?
Yes, but use email or LinkedIn instead of calling.
Does following up really increase chances?
Yes. Recruiters often notice proactive, professional candidates.
Where can I find more job-search advice for South Africans?
Visit Linkinn.co.za for job opportunities, learnerships, internships, and career guidance.
20. Final Thoughts: Mastering This Skill Sets You Apart
Knowing how to follow up after submitting a job application 2026 is one of the simplest yet most powerful ways to stand out in a competitive job market.
It shows:
- Confidence
- Communication skills
- Professionalism
- Genuine interest
In 2026, silence should never stop you from advocating for yourself — professionally and respectfully.
For more verified job opportunities, application tips, and career guidance, visit:
https://www.linkinn.co.za