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Featured question:
I just applied for a position by filling out the application online. I really want the job. Should I also call and/or go in person to the employer to express my interest in the position? – LaShana C.
It’s a tough call. You certainly can give the hiring manager a call to follow up a few weeks after you submit your application, but you are taking a risk in doing so. Sometimes, showing how enthusiastic you are about the job can give you an advantage, but you’ve got to do some investigating first to make sure that this particular hiring manager likes follow-up calls. If you don’t, you may come across a manager – and there are many – who absolutely hates it when job seekers call or visit to follow up. They’re busy, don’t have time to talk to you and bothering them could ruin your chances at getting the job.
If you do decide to take the risk, here are some rules to follow.
Call the hiring manager – once. Repeated calls are a sure way to annoy people and to not get a job. An email follow up (if you’re able to track down an email address) is best.
Call during slow hours. If you’ve applied at a restaurant, don’t call during lunch or dinner rush. Do your best to guess when the hiring manager might have a few minutes to spare to chat with you.
Keep it short and sweet. Say something like “Hi, this is LaShana. I recently applied through Snagajob for the assistant manager position in your store. I wanted to follow up with you, make sure you got my application and let you know that I am still very interested in the job.” Answer any questions the manager might have and then thank them, say good-bye and leave them alone.
We know it’s hard to stay patient and not call the hiring manager when there is a job out there that you really want. But a little patience can go a long way.
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Note: Sorry, we're not lawyers, so we can't offer you legal advice. If you have a legal question, contact your state fair employment practices agency or an attorney who specializes in employment law.