What to Do After You Apply: Smart Moves That Keep You on Their Radar
So, you tailored your résumé, wrote a thoughtful cover letter, and hit submit on that application. Now what?
Waiting in silence after applying can feel frustrating, especially when you’re genuinely excited about the role. But here’s the good news: there are meaningful things you can do in this in-between phase that keep your momentum going and put you on the radar (without being overbearing). Proactive steps not only help you stand out, but also keep your confidence up and your job search organized.
1. Follow Up (the Right Way)
If it’s been about a week since you applied, and you haven’t seen a status update, it’s totally okay to follow up. Keep it short, warm, and clear. Here's a message you can adapt:
Hi [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I recently applied for the [Job Title] position and just wanted to say how excited I am about the opportunity to contribute to [Company’s Mission/Recent Project]. Please let me know if there’s anything else you need from me.
Warmly,
[Your Name]
When you send a follow-up, always personalize your message. Reference something specific about the company or role that excites you, and avoid sounding impatient or demanding. This demonstrates genuine interest and professionalism, and helps you make a memorable impression.
2. Engage Thoughtfully
You don’t need to flood their feed but engaging with the company or team on LinkedIn shows genuine interest. You might:
Like or comment on a recent company post
Re-share a relevant article and tag them with your thoughts
Congratulate team members on new roles or milestones
This keeps your name fresh without another email. Thoughtful engagement can also help you learn more about the company culture and values, which is useful if you’re invited to interview. Remember to keep your interactions authentic—focus on topics you genuinely care about or find interesting.
3. Track Your Applications
It’s easy to lose track when you're applying to multiple roles. Use a simple spreadsheet or tool (like Notion or Trello) to log:
Role & company
Date applied
Any follow-up sent
Application status
This helps you stay organized and keeps your brain clear for interviews. Tracking your applications also allows you to identify patterns such as which types of roles are progressing further and when to follow up. Organization reduces stress and ensures you never miss an opportunity to connect or follow up.
4. Use the Wait Time Wisely
Instead of refreshing your inbox, spend this time:
Practicing interview answers out loud
Updating your portfolio or LinkedIn
Doing a skill refresher on something relevant to the role
Networking with people in similar roles or industries
Consider setting small, achievable goals for each week you’re waiting. For example, you might aim to connect with three new professionals in your field or complete a short online course related to the job you want. These actions keep you moving forward and help you feel more prepared for the next step.
5. Keep Your Confidence Up
It’s hard not to overthink when you don’t hear back. But remember—not getting a reply doesn’t mean you’re not qualified. Hiring timelines vary wildly. The best thing you can do? Stay in motion and keep showing up with clarity, energy, and intention.
Remind yourself that every application is a learning opportunity. Celebrate small wins, like getting a response or landing an interview, and don’t hesitate to seek support from peers or mentors. Confidence is built over time, and staying engaged in your own growth will help you weather the ups and downs of the job search process.
Bonus Tip: If you're a member of the AdaMarie Network, drop into the community and let us know how your job search is going. We’re here to support you through every step of the process—from follow-up messages to final interviews. Sharing your experiences can help others, and you might even find new opportunities or connections along the way.
The waiting game can be tough, but with intention and community, you’ll be ready for whatever comes next.
