You’ve heard the saying, ‘you never get a second chance at a first impression.’ This applies to job hunting too. You’ll miss opportunities if you don’t follow up after sending out your resume.

There are many reasons why recruiters and hiring managers may have yet to call you back. Maybe they were swamped with work, perhaps they didn’t like what they saw in your application, or it could be that they just weren’t interested in talking to you. Whatever the reason, if you want to give yourself the best possible chance of getting an interview, you need to take action.

In this article, we’ll look at some things you can do to ensure you get noticed by recruiters and hiring managers when you send them your resume. We’ll also show you how to prepare for those conversations so you can increase your chances of being invited for an interview.

How long does it take to receive a job offer?

If you sent out your resume through a recruiter, then you should expect to receive a response within 4-6 weeks. However, if you applied directly online, you may only receive a response from employers once they’ve had time to review all applications. It’s important to note that there is no set timeframe for receiving answers. Some companies respond quickly, while others can take months to process resumes.

The length of time it takes to hear back varies depending on the type of position you apply for and the company itself. For example, a large corporation might take longer than a small startup because its HR department has more applicants.

So how can you speed up the process? The key to increasing your chances of hearing back from a recruiter is to follow up as soon as you get their message.

What to do while waiting for a response

While you wait for a recruiter to call or email you back, there are several steps you can take to improve your chances of getting hired. Here are three quick tips:

1. Update your LinkedIn profile. LinkedIn is one of the most powerful tools available to job seekers today. You will appear more professional and relevant to potential employers by updating your profile regularly. Updating your profile includes adding new skills, achievements, recommendations, and other information demonstrating your expertise.

2. Create a targeted cover letter. A cover letter is an opportunity to sell yourself to a hiring manager and demonstrate that you understand their needs. A good cover letter shows you know whom you are applying to, what they do, and why you would be a great fit for the role. Use your cover letter to highlight your experience, accomplishments, and strengths.

3. Apply for jobs. The best way to find a job is to apply for every single opening that comes along. While it’s true that using it for lots of positions increases your chances of finding a job, it doesn’t guarantee anything.

4. Keep sending thank you notes. Send emails thanking each person who helped you in your search. This simple step helps build valuable connections and creates opportunities for future introductions. Showing gratitude goes a long way!

5. Network. Networking is another effective strategy to increase your chances of landing a job. Start by joining groups on social media where professionals discuss current events and share advice. Next, reach out to friends and colleagues to ask for referrals. Finally, attend career fairs and conferences, so you have access to networking opportunities.

Should you get back in touch with a recruiter?

Yes. Once you send your application through a recruiter, they will contact you when they receive your materials. If you are still waiting to hear back from them after four to six weeks, it means that they have yet to find someone suitable. You can always try again later.

No. It’s only necessary to follow up with recruiters if you want to. They are busy people and may need more time to review all the applications they receive. Plus, if you follow up with a resume without a cover letter, you risk being considered “overqualified” for the job.

When should you contact a recruiter for a follow-up?

You should follow up within two weeks of receiving their message. If you wait longer than this, you could take advantage of a position that becomes available before then. Remember those recruiters who cannot respond immediately. Follow up at least once a week until you hear back from them.

Should I follow up with a recruiter if I don’t get called back?

Yes. If you sent a resume but have yet to hear back from a recruiter, follow up with them as soon as possible. Many recruiters will only see your resume if they are interested in working with you. The same logic applies to phone calls—they may not return your call if they aren’t interested in working with you.

If the recruiter doesn’t call, what should you do?

It can be frustrating if you’re waiting to hear back from a recruiter after an interview and the promised call time has come and gone. Here are a few steps you can take to follow up and ensure you stay aware of the situation.

The first step you can take if the recruiter didn’t call when they said they would is to check in with them. You can shoot them a quick email or give them a call. This shows that you’re still interested in the position and want to touch base. The recruiter may have forgotten or got busy, and your follow-up will jog their memory.

If you have not heard back from the recruiter after a few days, your next step is to follow up on your application. You can do this by logging into the job board or website where you applied and checking the status of your application. If it says “under review” or something similar, your application is still being considered. If it says “closed” or “filled,” unfortunately, you didn’t get the job.

1. Check your email to find out when the call will be (and timezone).

It’s easy to lose track of what day it is and how much time is left. Make sure you know exactly when the recruiter is supposed to call. If you’re unsure, check your calendar. Following our guide, you’ll notice we included some tips to help you keep track of time.

If the recruiter has yet to call by now, it might mean they weren’t interested in meeting with you. In this case, you need to move on. There are plenty of other opportunities out there.

Don’t worry. Recruiters typically call back within 24 hours. Don’t panic! Just follow up with another email or phone call. Keep sending emails or calling until you reach out to the recruiter.

2. Make them aware of your attention, but avoid being aggressive.

The job hunt can be challenging. You might feel like you’re competing against hundreds of thousands of applicants. Even though you’ve got great experience, there’s no guarantee that you’ll land the position. But one thing’s certain: you won’t stand out unless you take action.

You must learn how to connect with recruiters. If you send generic emails, you’re just another applicant. Instead, use LinkedIn to build relationships with recruiters. Then, when you reach out to them, keep things light and friendly. Focus on what you want, and let them know you’re interested. Don’t be desperate. And remember: recruiters are only sometimes available, so don’t call.

3. Continue applying to other positions.

There’s nothing wrong with continuing to apply to jobs as long as you have the plan to handle any rejections. That way, you’ll always take advantage of a potential opportunity because you were too focused on getting one particular role.

When you are stuck in a rut, try thinking outside the box and consider new career options. You could start working at a company with the kind of work environment you enjoy. Or you should look into freelancing or consulting.

Conclusion

Staffing needs to be a priority for any company. To be sure, locating suitable personnel is essential, but there are others. The right partner may come along after some time. Maintain your connections and look into other opportunities while you wait.

Should you initiate contact with a recruiter or expect to be contacted by one? You might prefer to get a more complex answer than you’d like.

But we can guarantee that recruiters will try to get in touch with you if your resume is well-written and highlights your most relevant qualifications, experience, and talents. So, let our professional resume writers help you out.

When it comes to resumes, we know what it takes to capture the attention of hiring managers. Get in touch with us today, and let us assist you in reaching the next professional level.