Don’t Be Annoying: The Right Way to Follow Up With Employers

So, you talked to your contacts, found the perfect job, and applied to the position. You included everything you needed to, cleaned up your online presence, and even had a referral to the position. Now what?

In an age where the job search is all about being proactive, you need to do one last thing in order to stand out from the pack: Follow up. Following up means reminding an employer that you applied, communicating your skills once again, and asking if they need additional information. However, there’s both a right way to conduct proper follow up and an absolutely terrible way to use this strategy.

Here are a few things to consider when following up for a position.

Chose the correct method

There are tons of ways to follow up with an employer. From emails to phone calls, choosing the correct follow up method can assist you in amping up this strategy. But, how can you know what strategy works best?

Take a look at the organization. Are they tech-savvy? Are they into traditional communication methods? Are they good at communicating at all? It’s important to first evaluate how they do their talking and then tailor your follow up method toward it. For example, if a recruiter has primarily conversed with you through email, reach out to them in the same way.

Use social media properly

The power of social media is undeniable. Not only is it a great way to show off your personal brand, but over 90 percent of employers use it in their recruitment methods. So, with that idea in mind, following up with employers via social media is a great way to reach them in a different way.

Let’s say the company’s recruiter has a heavy presence on LinkedIn and Twitter. After a week or so, you could send them an InMail message on LinkedIn to convey your interest in the company. Or, you can also give them a shout out on Twitter in regard to an article they posted. Though these follow up messages are more subtle, they do bring your presence to the front of the line in a different way.

Go old school

Who said there’s anything wrong with traditional forms of following up? A handwritten note can be a refreshing way to stand out from other candidates. You could also request an informational interview with an employer. Going to the organization to deliver your message in person — after making sure it’s OK, of course — is another way to bridge the gap between modern and conventional. In this case, old school paths may be more effective.

However, be aware that old school methods are old school for a reason. An employer may not have time to go through snail mail. The company you’re applying to could be virtual, so an office visit may not be possible. There could be other barriers to entry, such as an iron-clad receptionist or an inability to get the right contact information. When you’re faced with these obstacles, it’s important to revisit old school methods, find out if other routes may be easier, and evaluate if a combination of follow up methods — such as an email and a handwritten note  — may be a better way to go.

Don’t be that annoying job seeker who incessantly calls a hiring manager, bugs them about your application status, or stalks them until they give in. Instead, use the correct forms of following up that will not only appeal to them, but also put your candidacy in the best light.

What do you think? What are some other ways to follow up with an employer?

 Image: Courtesy of Andrew Wippler; Flickr